JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) continues to grapple with a nationwide shortage of critical aviation personnel, a crisis that’s impacting air travel across the country.
RELATED: What to know about the air traffic controller shortage
At major hubs like Newark International Airport, the shortage of air traffic controllers has already led to significant operational changes, including a cap on hourly flights, now limited to 56 per hour, down from 70.
But what does the situation look like closer to home?
According to the latest FAA data provided to News4Jax from the FAA’s Office of Communications. A spokesperson writes.
“The Jacksonville control tower and Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) is authorized for 47 fully certified controllers. It has 37 fully certified controllers and five remain in training.
TRACON controllers guide aircraft in and out of airports. Tower controllers handle aircraft that are landing, taking off and taxiing on the airport surface."
Peter Trabucco, an aviation expert and commercial pilot, put the scope of the FAA’s workforce challenges into perspective:
- The U.S. faces a shortage of roughly 3,000 air traffic controllers
- There’s a deficit of 20,000 pilots
- And the FAA needs to hire 24,000 maintenance mechanics
“These shortages are largely due to post-COVID retirements and the inherently high-stress nature of the job,” Trabucco said, adding that he has confidence in the FAA.
“Let’s face it, air transportation is still the safest mode of transportation... I have full confidence we will get over this hump,” he said.
Staffing isn’t the only challenge the FAA is facing. Experts point to aging infrastructure as another critical concern. Recent radar malfunctions at Newark International have highlighted the risks posed by outdated equipment.
Looking ahead, Congress has authorized $17.8 billion for FAA facility and equipment upgrades between 2024 and 2028. Also, the FAA has pledged to hire over 1,800 new air traffic controllers this year, offering incentives and bonuses to attract talent.
