Gamers are one target of the FAA’s latest air traffic control (ATC) recruitment push. [Credit: FAA]
Key Takeaways:
The FAA is launching a new recruitment campaign targeting gamers to address a chronic shortage of thousands of air traffic controllers (ATCs), believing their cognitive and multitasking skills are well-suited for the role.
Despite hitting recent hiring targets and implementing various incentives, the FAA remains significantly understaffed, with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) stating a deficit of over 3,500 controllers.
The ATC career offers competitive pay and advancement, but it is a highly stressful profession marked by long hours due to staffing shortages, reliance on antiquated technology, and a high initial burnout rate.
That’s how the FAA—in a flashy new video posted Friday—is pitching to gamers to put their twitchy fingers to use in the control tower in its latest air traffic control (ATC) hiring push, as it looks to address a chronic shortage of thousands of personnel.
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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.
