FAA officials are reporting a “promising start” to the agency’s air traffic controller hiring supercharge.
According to FAA officials, the latest air traffic controller hiring window, which closed March 17, 2025, “shaved five months off the old hiring pipeline through U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy’s efforts to supercharge air traffic controller hiring.”
FAA officials reported March 21, 2025, that the agency “has already qualified and referred more than 8,320 candidates to the aptitude exam, known as the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA). More than 190 candidates have already passed the ATSA and moved into the hiring process.”
“I’m thrilled to see that early results of air traffic controller hiring supercharge were so promising. By prioritizing a merit-based process, cutting red tape, and increasing starting salaries, we are bringing in the best and brightest across America to help keep our skies secure at record speeds,” said Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau.
Candidates who receive the highest score on the ATSA will be given priority for entrance into the ATC training academy at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center in Oklahoma City.
The FAA has increased the starting salary for academy trainees by 30%, noting the average certified professional controller makes over $160,000 per year.
Once trainees graduate the academy, they’ll be assigned to one of the 313 FAA facilities across the country, where they’ll work with experienced air traffic controllers toward their certification.
For more information: FAA.gov
