The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) far exceeded its air traffic controller hiring goals for Fiscal Year 2026.
On Thursday, the agency announced that it has hired 2,235 air traffic controller trainees, which is the most in FAA history.
The new record comes on the heels of the agency's highly publicized and highly successful campaign targeting gamers that recruited more than 12,000 Americans to apply in just 24 hours.
According to the FAA, more than 1,300 trainees have successfully graduated from the academy already this fiscal year.
"Meeting this year’s hiring goal is an important milestone, but it’s not the finish line," FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said in a statement.
"We are focused on continuing to bring the best and the brightest people into the profession, giving them the training and tools they need to succeed, and building a stronger, more resilient air traffic control workforce," added Bedford.
"Every new controller represents an investment in the future of the National Airspace System."
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is currently on track to achieve his department's goal of hiring at least 8,900 new air traffic controller trainees through 2028.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
