Sean Duffy reports progress in air traffic controller hiring campaign

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced that a Department of Transportation hiring campaign targeting video gamers has reached 94 percent of its goal, bringing in over 2,000 new air traffic controller candidates. Duffy described the results as historic, claiming the streamlined process is moving candidates to the academy faster than previous classes.

However, candidates for the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) leadership have criticized Duffy’s recent comments regarding flight disruptions. Duffy previously attributed delays and cancellations in the Northeast to bad weather and high rates of controller sick calls. NATCA candidates refuted this, arguing that systemic issues such as chronic understaffing, failed workforce planning, and infrastructure failures are the true causes of instability.

While the DOT reports success in recruitment, critics note that the training process is rigorous, with approximately one-third of trainees failing to complete certification. Additionally, the FAA recently reduced its staffing targets despite a significant shortage of controllers and high levels of overtime costs.