Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has expanded the number of schools that can participate in a fast-tracked air traffic control training program, as the administration seeks to address a nationwide shortage of about 3,000 air traffic controllers. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the safety and efficiency of the national airspace system, particularly in light of recent incidents involving control tower mishaps and crashes.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently facing a critical shortage of approximately 3,000 air traffic controllers, which has raised concerns about the safety and reliability of air travel. In response, the Trump administration has added several schools to a program that allows them to provide FAA Academy air traffic control training, with students then proceeding directly to FAA facilities for further training. This streamlined approach is intended to reduce the time and resources needed to prepare new controllers, making the process more efficient and accessible.
The Enhanced Air Traffic – Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program enables selected institutions to provide FAA-approved training to their students. Graduates of these programs then proceed directly to FAA facilities for advanced training, cutting out the need for additional coursework at the Air Traffic Controller Academy. This initiative has seen several institutions join the program recently, including Nashua Community College and the University of North Dakota, which have been pivotal in addressing the staffing shortage.
Secretary Duffy emphasized the importance of attracting young talent to the field, highlighting the impact of these programs on the safety and efficiency of air travel.