In 2025, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) stated that coordinated activities that disrupt the national airspace system are illegal and warned such actions can jeopardize controllers' careers.
October 10, 2025
high
temporal
Union position regarding coordinated work stoppages or activities that interfere with air traffic operations.
Many U.S. air traffic controllers are represented by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA).
October 08, 2025
high
institutional
Labor representation for U.S. air traffic controllers.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) states that the United States is experiencing a national shortage of air traffic controllers and has called for accelerated training and hiring to address staffing vulnerabilities.
October 08, 2025
high
operational
Organizational assessment and recommended response to controller staffing shortfalls.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association states that a shortage of air traffic controllers leaves the aviation system vulnerable and that accelerating training and hiring is necessary to address the staffing shortage.
high
organizational_position
Union position on consequences of controller staffing shortages and recommended remedies
Air traffic controllers must maintain continuous, full attention while on duty because air traffic control is a safety-critical, fast-paced, and complex job.
high
temporal
Explains the operational requirements and safety rationale for air traffic controller performance expectations.
There are about 10,800 certified air traffic controllers operating in the U.S. system while a fully staffed level is cited as 14,633 controllers.
high
statistic
Reported operational staffing versus a cited full staffing target for the U.S. air traffic control system
During prolonged unpaid periods, air traffic controllers may work mandatory overtime (for example up to six days per week) and some may take second jobs to cover living expenses.
high
process
Describes labor and schedule responses by controllers when pay is interrupted for extended periods.