FAA Delays Implementation Of Required Rest For Air Traffic Controllers

The Federal Aviation Administration said it would delay the implementation of the required further rest for air traffic controllers.

The FAA, in a move that aligns with the findings of an independent panel, has announced new rules that will provide air traffic controllers with 10 hours in between shifts and 12 hours off before working a midnight shift. 

But the delay is not a surprise. The agency did say last month that it would take up to 90 days to start the process.

The additional rest is welcome and needed. There have been numerous close calls on airport runways in the last year or two. A shortage of air traffic controllers and fatigue among those who are still working have been cited as part of the reasoning for more rest.

FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker said the agency still needs to discuss the details of the new requirements with the union.

FAA Air Traffic Organization Chief Operating Officer Timothy Arel said the organization hopes “to have a joint agreement and understanding on new rest periods to allow for joint development of a strategy for implementing them.” 

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