FAA Delays Implementation of New Air Traffic Control Rest Requirements in the US
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Wednesday that it would delay the implementation of new requirements for air traffic controllers to ensure they receive adequate rest between shifts. The delay comes as the FAA grapples with a shortage of controllers and concerns over fatigue-related incidents.
Originally scheduled to begin by mid-July, the new rules mandate that controllers receive at least 10 hours off between shifts and 12 hours off before commencing a midnight shift. However, discussions between the FAA and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) union have postponed these requirements.
Timothy Arel, the FAA Air Traffic Organization Chief Operating Officer, stated that the agency is engaging in discussions with NATCA to reach a consensus on new rest periods for the 2025 schedule, or earlier if possible. He emphasized the importance of addressing fatigue issues seriously.
NATCA expressed its concerns, noting that it was not consulted before the FAA’s decision regarding time off-duty before shifts. The union requested a briefing on the scientific data the FAA relied upon in making its determination. NATCA affirmed its commitment to collaborate with the FAA to establish sufficient time off-duty before all shifts.
The shortage of air traffic controllers has led to mandatory overtime and six-day work weeks at several facilities. Despite efforts to hire more, the FAA is approximately 3,000 controllers short of its staffing targets. President Joe Biden has sought funding to hire 2,000 controllers this year.
In a separate development, Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand and other lawmakers urged the FAA to rescind plans to relocate 17 air traffic controllers from the New York Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) to Philadelphia. The move aims to address staffing and traffic congestion issues but has been met with opposition from lawmakers concerned about its impact on public safety and controller staffing levels.
The New York TRACON oversees some of the busiest and most complex airspace in the United States. The FAA’s decision to extend cuts to minimum flight requirements at New York City-area airports through October due to staffing issues underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the aviation industry in ensuring efficient and safe operations amidst staffing shortages.
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