It requires the capacity to concentrate and multi-task in stressful situations as well as the ability to process a multitude of information quickly, among other critical responsibilities. What does it take to become an air traffic controller?Īs you might imagine, working as an air traffic controller can be intense. With an estimated 24,9000 air traffic controllers currently in place in the United States, the need is expected to grow to 6,800 over the next 10 years-factoring in the retirement of approximately 5,900 practicing air traffic controllers and the addition of 900 more. It is therefore no surprise that this critical shortage is leading-in part-to more flight delays and cancellations during the height of summer travel and well beyond. Additionally, data revealed that 77 percent of critical air traffic control facilities, such as New York Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) and Miami Tower, are staffed below the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA’s) required 85 percent-coming in at 54 percent and 66 percent, respectively. Why the need is so urgentĪccording to Pete Buttigieg, United States Secretary of Transportation, the United States is understaffed by about 3,000 air traffic control positions. Here’s why: Vaughn College, a leading aviation institution in Queens, adjacent to LaGuardia Airport, offers training that makes becoming an air traffic controller easier than you might expect. With the shortage hitting the New York area especially hard, this is an opportune time for those who are considering this career path-particularly for anyone who resides locally. The ongoing shortage of air traffic controllers is swinging doors wide open for those seeking a career in this in-demand job.

Air traffic control requirements