The International Air Transport Association has weighed in on the issues facing US air traffic control.
While US airline employment is at its highest level in over two decades, air traffic controller shortages are causing unacceptable delays, says IATA Director General Willie Walsh.
“Over the past 12-18 months airlines have responded to the very strong post-pandemic travel demand by adding tens of thousands of employees.”
“The FAA has allowed the controller workforce to shrink to the point where it is challenged to maintain continuity of operations,” Walsh said.
In fact, 77% of these vital facilities are staffed below the Agency’s 85% threshold.”
Walsh says staff shortages are especially acute in New York and Miami.
As a result, airlines serving New York area airports had to cut 10% of flights at the request of the FAA.
“Poor ATC performance comes on top of the FAA and DOT requiring airlines to invest over $630 million to mitigate the risks of 5G.”
“This double whammy of poor planning is exceptionally disappointing.”
“Appointing a permanent FAA Administrator would be a first and major step in urgently addressing the US aviation/air traffic control infrastructure constraints.”
