FAA’s new ATC staffing model sets a target of 12,563 certified professional controllers (CPCs) for fiscal year 2026, a revision down from previous targets. [Credit: Shutterstock]
Key Takeaways:
The FAA released a new Air Traffic Controller (ATC) Workforce Plan, lowering its staffing target for fiscal year 2026 to 12,563 certified professional controllers (CPCs) and reducing the perceived current shortfall.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) was excluded from developing the new plan and strongly disagrees with the FAA's revised staffing model, labeling it "faulty research" and a "failed approach" that underestimates the actual shortage.
The FAA justifies the lower target by stating its new model better accounts for controller availability, aiming to improve efficiency, reduce overtime and fatigue, and integrate automation for better workforce management.
Despite ambitious hiring goals and new incentives, the FAA anticipates significant controller losses due to attrition and retirements, resulting in a much smaller net gain in personnel over the next few years.
Updated May 18 at 5 p.m. EDT with additional statements from NATCA.
The union representing the country’s more than 14,000 air traffic controllers (ATCs) said that it was left out of the FAA’s decision to lower its ATC staffing target amid a chronic shortage of personnel.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
