The Trump administration is working to resolve the nationwide shortage of air traffic controllers across the United States. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has set a target of hiring 2,000 new controllers by the end of the year, with federal aviation officials stating they are on track to meet this goal by mid-September. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is leveraging advanced simulation technology at its Oklahoma City training facility to streamline the certification process, reportedly reducing the time required for new controllers to become operational.
Inside the FAA’s Oklahoma City training site, cutting-edge simulation technology is used to give trainees a realistic feel for working in the tower. This innovation is said to cut weeks off the time needed for certification. Aviation officials are confident that they are on track to reach their goal of adding 2,000 new controllers by mid-September.
Chris Wilbanks, the FAA’s Vice President of Mission Support, emphasized that while the process of keying up aircraft and providing clear instructions may not come naturally to people, the training ensures that all communication is precise and understood by pilots. Training programs for new controllers include a 30-day basics course, followed by several weeks of specialized training in both tower and radar operations.
Wilbanks also highlighted the impact air traffic controllers have on daily life, noting that while passengers may not know who ensured their safe arrival, the controllers play a crucial role in aviation safety. The push for more controllers is especially urgent given that staffing shortages have led to delays at busy airports like Newark, New Jersey. Wilbanks mentioned that they have a new simulation system in Newark and continue to monitor problem areas closely.
To help meet the demand for more controllers, Secretary Duffy launched the Supercharge Initiative earlier this year as part of a $12.5 billion boost to FAA infrastructure. This initiative includes $100 million allocated for training purposes. July alone has seen the highest number of academy students in training in FAA history, with 550 students expected by the end of the month. The FAA has also reduced the administrative process by over five months, with top-performing candidates being fast-tracked into the academy.
Secretary Duffy emphasized in a recent newsletter that while addressing the controller shortage will take time, the Supercharge Initiative is gaining momentum. He noted that with the new streamlined hiring process, the best and brightest candidates are starting their careers in air traffic control more quickly. The administration is committed to continuing to leverage available opportunities to chip away at the shortage and ensure the safety of the nation’s skies.