FAA Unveils New ATC Staffing Blueprint

Updated plan would add about 1,000 certified controllers and controllers in training by the end of 2028.

Jack Daleo

Friday, August 08, 2025 at 03:00 PM ET

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Jack Daleo

Updated FAA blueprint aims to hire thousands of controllers through 2028, though thousands more are expected to depart the workforce. [Courtesy: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA's plan to hire approximately 8,900 air traffic controllers by 2028 is projected to result in a net gain of only about 1,000 certified controllers due to anticipated departures, failing to fully address the persistent nationwide shortage.
Chronic understaffing at many ATC facilities is linked to increased controller workload, safety concerns (such as the encouragement of visual separation), and operational disruptions including flight delays and cancellations.
Beyond "supercharged" hiring initiatives, the FAA and DOT are also focused on upgrading outdated air traffic control technology and modernizing the overall ATC system with significant congressional funding.

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The FAA’s latest air traffic control (ATC) workforce plan projects that the agency will hire thousands of controllers by the end of 2028—but that push would not be enough to address a nationwide shortage that has persisted for years.

The staffing blueprint, unveiled Thursday by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, outlines the agency’s strategy to close the gap, which stands at about 3,000 to 3,500 certified professional controllers (CPCs). The plan calls for onboarding about 8,900 personnel through 2028.