The agency intends to add thousands of air traffic controllers and safety personnel as technology and travel landscapes shift.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) released an updated Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plan to recruit, train, and retain thousands of air traffic controllers and aviation safety professionals over the next decade. The initiative addresses rapid changes in the aviation industry, including electric and hybrid aircraft systems, increased drone usage, expanded commercial space travel, and new technologies such as artificial intelligence.
The FAA expects to hire at least 8,900 air traffic controllers by 2028, 2,000 in 2025 alone, and approximately 4,600 safety inspectors and engineers by 2034. The effort includes incentives for hard-to-staff positions, year-round recruitment of experienced personnel from the military and private sector, and expanding collegiate programs that prepare candidates to start work without attending the FAA Academy.
“The aviation ecosystem is rapidly evolving and the FAA must adapt to unprecedented changes,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “Our success depends on highly skilled and dedicated air traffic control and aviation safety inspector workforces, and growing both is a top priority for the FAA.”
For aviation safety roles, the FAA is also using expedited hiring authority, relocation assistance, and specialized pay to attract qualified inspectors, engineers, and medical officers.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Sean Duffy to be discerning as he oversees updates in the FAA hiring process.
- For wisdom for Administrator Bryan Bedford as he implements the updates to improve air traffic control staffing.
- For Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau as he collaborates on air traffic safety efforts.
Sources: Department of Transportation
