Revitalizing the Air Traffic Controller Workforce: Secretary Duffy’s Bold New Package

New Efforts to Strengthen Air Traffic Control Workforce

On May 4, 2025, US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced a vital initiative aimed at enhancing the air traffic controller workforce. After launching a supercharge program earlier this year, Duffy's latest package aims to not only hire more controllers quickly but also to retain the experienced ones currently in service. This comes amid ongoing concerns regarding staffing shortages in air traffic control, which have developed over several years.

“In our first 100 days, this administration has made more progress on addressing the air traffic controller shortage than the last one did in four years,” said Secretary Duffy. His comments highlight the urgency of the situation, as air traffic control is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient operation of flights across the United States.

Support from the National Air Traffic Controllers Association

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) expressed support for Secretary Duffy’s actions. NATCA President Nick Daniels commented, “This new recruitment award and retention incentive program is a meaningful step toward addressing the ongoing staffing shortages in air traffic control across the National Airspace System.” The collaboration between the federal government and NATCA is essential for improving staffing levels and ensuring safety standards are met.

Details of the New Recruitment and Retention Program

The new package introduced by Secretary Duffy includes several measures aimed at addressing both retention and recruitment. For existing controllers, the following initiatives will be implemented:

• Limited-time incentive packages to discourage retirement.
• Financial rewards for academy graduates who serve in hard-to-staff facilities.

As for recruiting new talent, the FAA plans to:

• Provide veterans with more opportunities within air traffic control.
• Offer financial incentives for completing key training milestones.
• Streamline the hiring process, significantly reducing wait times for medical and security clearances.

With these measures, the FAA aims to hire at least 2,000 controllers this year alone, building on prior efforts that had already seen starting salaries for Academy trainees increase by 30%.

The Path Forward

The air traffic control profession has faced staffing challenges for far too long, and Secretary Duffy’s initiatives are a welcome solution aimed at securing the future of our skies. As the FAA expands and modernizes its workforce, the hope is that these actions will enhance the safety and efficiency of air travel across the country. The collaboration between agencies, associations, and new recruits will play a crucial role in this ongoing effort.

Taking action now can make the skies safer for everyone. Support measures that help raise awareness about the importance of the air traffic controller workforce, and consider exploring a career in this essential field!