| FAA to probe air traffic controller staffing The U.S. Transportation Department Office of Inspector General is to launch an investigation into high failure rates among air traffic control trainees amid a persistent shortage of air traffic controllers. “Attrition, retirements, and program washouts are severely impacting the overall success of increasing the number of certified controllers,” the inspector general said. “The training academy is facing considerable challenges with training, including a shortage of qualified instructors, training capacity limitations, an outdated curriculum, and high training failure rates.” The Federal Aviation Administration is about 3,500 air traffic controllers short of targeted staffing levels. Many are working mandatory overtime and six-day weeks. |
