Duffy: ATC Hiring Push Attracts 6,000 Applicants

Program ‘has been wildly successful’ in recruiting air traffic control trainees, transportation secretary says.

Jack Daleo

Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Zach Vasile

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says 6,000 people have applied to become air traffic controllers since a new application went live on Friday. [Credit: U.S. Department of Transportation]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA's latest recruiting strategy, targeting gamers, has generated significant early interest, with 6,000 applications received in one day for air traffic controller positions.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy attributes gamers' cognitive, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities as key reasons for their suitability for the demanding ATC role.
This hiring push is a crucial part of the FAA's broader effort to address a chronic shortage of over 3,500 controllers, aiming to onboard thousands of new trainees annually to meet staffing targets.
Despite the influx of applicants, the FAA faces challenges including a 30% attrition rate in its academy and the inherent stress and rigorous training required for the safety-critical profession.

See a mistake? Contact us.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said Friday that the FAA’s latest air traffic control (ATC) hiring push—targeting gamers—is paying early dividends in addressing a chronic shortage of more than 3,500 controllers.

Speaking at the Semafor World Economy Summit in Washington, D.C., Duffy said 6,000 people have applied to become ATCs since the FAA opened a new hiring portal at midnight on Friday. The portal will close on April 27, or earlier if the number of applicants hits 8,000.