FAA links controller pay raise to productivity as staffing shortage persists
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FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford has tied a 2.8% pay raise for air traffic controllers to productivity, even as the workforce remains about 3,000 controllers short. Controllers are working up to ten-hour shifts six days a week, and current and former controllers warn that staffing problems are hurting morale and recruitment.
Key Facts
- The FAA has not yet implemented a 2.8% pay raise for air traffic controllers that Congress approved in April.
- The air traffic control workforce is about 3,000 controllers short of staffing needs.
- Some air traffic controllers are working ten-hour shifts six days a week.
- Retired controller Dave Riley worked at Denver International Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
Pay Raise Stalled
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford has linked a sweep of changes to continued strain on the air traffic control system. The last of a 2.8% raise approved by Congress in April remains unimplemented. The FAA claims controllers are not productive enough to earn the same income raise as other government employees.
Overtime and Fatigue
A new proposal suggests controllers should be permitted to spend more time on shift while on duty. Between 2023 and 2025, acceptable overtime levels far exceeded reasonable use, according to an analysis by Anna Giartitelli on X. Chronic overtime has increased fatigue, burnout, and loss of controllers as they look for other jobs. Some controllers work up to ten-hour shifts six days a week, leaving little downtime outside work.
Workforce Strain
Current and former controllers warn that staffing problems are hemorrhaging morale and complicating recruitment. Retired controller Dave Riley said excessive overtime and training interruptions have made it increasingly difficult for the administration to rebuild the workforce. The nation's air traffic system remains susceptible to weather and other disruptions.
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FAA links controller pay raise to productivity as staffing shortage persists
