Hiring Boost Could Finally Bring ATC Staffing Closer to Safe Levels The FAA is desperate to get ATC staffing levels back to normal, requesting $95.4 million of the fiscal 2027 budget to bring on 2,300 new air traffic controller trainees. This is one part of a broader effort to close a gap that currently sits roughly 3,500 fully certified controllers below target.

Hiring Boost Could Finally Bring ATC Staffing Closer to Safe Levels The FAA is desperate to get ATC staffing levels back to normal, requesting $95.4 million of the fiscal 2027 budget to bring on 2,300 new air traffic controller trainees. This is one part of a broader effort to close a gap that currently sits roughly 3,500 fully certified controllers below target.