Bipartisan legislation to address the nation’s air traffic controller staffing shortage was introduced in the House on Thursday.
U.S. Reps. Nick Begich (R-AK), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Tracey Mann (R-KS) and Maggie Goodlander (D-NH) introduced the Air Traffic Control Workforce Development Act of 2025 to expand training, recruitment and retention incentives as a way of addressing what they called “one of the most serious safety risks currently facing U.S. airspace.”
The legislation codifies the FAA Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI), funds tower simulator systems, and supports mental health services for air traffic controllers, while improving the recruitment and retention incentives currently being offered. The bill is a companion bill to Senate Bill 697.
“Safe, reliable air travel is core to life in Alaska. Whether it’s delivering food and supplies to remote villages or ensuring medevac services reach those in need, air traffic controllers are essential to our state,” Begich said. “The Air Traffic Control Workforce Development Act of 2025 is a commonsense solution to a national challenge. It strengthens the safety of our skies by making forward-looking investments to ensure we train and support highly skilled professionals. By training the next generation of controllers now, we’re building a safer, more connected future for every American.”
According to reports, the FAA currently has 2,300 fewer Certified Professional Controllers than is needed and continues to fall below hiring and certification targets. The shortage has forced many controllers to work mandatory overtime which increases the risk of errors, officials said. The proposed legislation would authorize $20 million annually in grants for AT-CTI schools to invest in curriculum, simulators and instructors and expand the use of simulators to train new controllers. At the same time, the legislation would remove penalties retired air traffic controllers face when becoming ATC instructors; direct the FAA to develop recruitment, certification and retention incentive programs; and support ATC mental health services.
The bill is supported by several aviation-related organizations, including the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, Air Traffic Control Association (ATCA), Airlines for America (A4A), and the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).
“Our air traffic controllers are the best in the world, and they work hard to ensure a smooth and safe journey for all travelers. But controllers in Arizona and nationally have sounded the alarm for years about staffing shortages that have left them overworked and undersupported,” Stanton said. “The bipartisan Air Traffic Control Workforce Development Act is an overdue investment in the recruitment and retention of highly-qualified controllers—their training, professional development and well-being.”
This bill is the House companion to Senate bill S. 697 and has earned the support of major stakeholders across the aviation industry.