FAA hires record number of air traffic controllers for 2024, exceeds targets

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) hired a total of 1,811 air traffic controllers for Fiscal Year 2024, exceeding its goal of 1,800.

Although the target was exceeded by just 11, this marks significant progress in the FAA’s work to reverse the decades-long decline in air traffic controller staffing numbers.

“Our dedicated air traffic controllers keep the flying public safe every day,” FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker said in a statement.

“I’m thrilled to announce that we hit this major hiring milestone and have so many talented professionals entering our training program. It’s a testament to the hard work of everyone involved and part of our ongoing work to rebuild the controller workforce,” Whitaker added. 

Currently, the FAA has more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. With this year’s addition, there are now around 3,400 controllers in various stages of training, ranging from initial instruction at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City for specialized airspace training.

We hired more than 1,800 controllers in 2024, but we’re not resting on success. Our next ATC entry-level hiring window opens on October 11! Do you have what it takes to keep our nation’s airspace safe? Learn if you qualify for the job at https://t.co/uHyX9MHfNd. #BeATC pic.twitter.com/picR81Skdr— The FAA ✈️ (@FAANews) September 23, 2024As part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to increase the pipeline of air traffic controllers, it will hold a new application period starting October 11, 2024. The extended hiring window will allow more time for future controllers to submit their applications and prepare for a future in the FAA.  

“Being recruiter-in-chief is one of the most important roles I play at the FAA. We will not rest on the success of this hiring push – we are already thinking about how to meet our goals next year and into the future. By starting early and casting a wide net for applications, we will continue to make progress on this critical work,” Whitaker said.

Air traffic control is one of the most specialized and skilled professions in the US federal government. Air traffic controllers work in towers at airports and radar rooms at FAA facilities nationwide. Their job is to separate planes, navigate them through weather and ensure that everyone gets to their destinations safely. Forbes considered it to be one of the most stressful jobs in a 2021 list. 

Air controller applicants must: 

Be a US citizen

Be younger than 31 years old before the closing date of the application period (with limited exceptions)

Have either one year of general work experience or four years of education leading to a bachelor’s degree, or a combination of both

Speak English clearly enough to be understood over communications equipment

Be willing to relocate to an FAA facility based on agency staffing needs
Interested applicants can learn more about eligibility requirements and application instructions here.

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