The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) qualified and referred more than 8,320 candidates to the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) aptitude exam since the latest hiring window closed on March 17.
More than 190 candidates so far have passed the ATSA and move to the next step in the hiring process. The candidates who receive the highest scores on the ATSA are given priority for the academy at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center. Candidates also must pass a medical exam. After graduation, candidates are assigned to one of the 313 FAA facilities nationwide where they work with experienced air traffic controllers to gain certification.
“I’m thrilled to see that early results of air traffic controller hiring supercharge were so promising,” Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau said. “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.”
Since President Donald Trump took office, the FAA has shorted the hiring pipeline by five months. This week’s numbers are that effort’s initial results.
The FAA also increased the starting salary for academy trainees by 30 percent. The average certified professional controller makes more than $160,000 annually.