FAA Hits Goal of Hiring 2,000 Air Traffic Controllers, Plans for More in 2025

FAA Hits Goal of Hiring 2,000 Air Traffic Controllers, Plans for More in 2025
LN24 / 23 minutes
September 19, 2025
1 min read
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that it has successfully reached its target of hiring 2,000 air traffic controllers during the 12-month period ending September 30. The agency now plans to bring on 2,200 more controllers in the coming year.
The update was shared by Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau during an industry event. A nationwide shortage of air traffic controllers has contributed to flight delays, with many current staff required to work six-day weeks and mandatory overtime.
The FAA is currently around 3,500 controllers below its desired staffing levels. In response, lawmakers approved $12.5 billion in July to modernise air traffic systems and support recruitment efforts.