NBAA and NATA Support Increase in Air Traffic Controller Recruitment

Both NATA (the National Air Transportation Association) and National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) welcome Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Sean Duffy’s plan to increase the number of air traffic controllers (ATC) to enhance aviation safety.

Duffy said the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will lead an effort to “supercharge” the certification and hiring of air traffic controllers to reduce the ATC staffing shortage.

"NATA applauds Secretary Duffy's move to prioritize modernizing and streamlining the recruitment, incentivization, and development of this safety critical role. Investing in measures that foster a uniform, dynamic safety culture with a pipeline of well-qualified air traffic control professionals will be key to not only sustaining the safety of the NAS but also preparing for continuous growth," stated NATA President and CEO Curt Castagna. 

“The United States is the world leader in aviation safety, and we thank Secretary Duffy for this focused plan to ensure we have the air traffic controllers needed to bolster the controller workforce, and enhance the safety and efficiency of the nation’s airspace,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen.