FAA boosts air traffic controller pipeline with new Georgia partnership

In response to a significant nationwide shortage of air traffic controllers, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken concrete steps to bolster its recruitment efforts. Recently, the FAA announced a partnership with Middle Georgia State University, marking it as Georgia's inaugural Enhanced Air Traffic – Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) school. This partnership aims to accelerate the hiring of air traffic controllers and enhance the educational framework that prepares students for careers in this crucial field. The FAA has determined that there is a shortage of approximately 3,000 air traffic controllers across the country, a situation that necessitates immediate and effective action. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy revealed that Middle Georgia State University will be implementing the same robust curriculum and advanced training techniques that are used at the FAA’s Air Traffic Controller Academy located in Oklahoma City. This initiative is expected to not only provide more people with direct pathways into air traffic control centers but also set higher educational standards and enhance practical training opportunities. Among other supporting measures, the FAA has authorized eight programs at seven school locations, with the goal of training and equipping aspiring air traffic controllers. According to Duffy, this initiative is vital for nurturing a next-generation workforce that can meet modern aviation demands, thereby improving the efficiency of the nation’s air traffic system. He emphasized that enhancing recruitment efforts and educational partnerships are crucial to reducing delays and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of aviation operations. As part of this plan, students at the Enhanced AT-CTI program must satisfy specific requirements, including passing the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) and adhering to the FAA's medical and security standards. Graduates will then have the advantage of moving directly to an FAA facility for their initial training, bypassing some preliminary courses required for standard AT-CTI graduates. To further support this push, the FAA is also rolling out financial incentives for new hires who meet certain training milestones, especially for those taking on roles at hard-to-staff locations. Overall, the FAA is committed to advancing the recruitment process to ensure that it attracts top talent into its air traffic controller ranks.