Air Traffic Control (ATC) staffing shortages would be addressed under a bipartisan bill proposed on Feb. 24 by U.S. Sens. John Hoeven (R-ND) and Jerry Moran (R-KS).
“Without an adequate workforce of qualified air traffic controllers, air travel cannot function in a safe and efficient manner, a reality made clear by recent aviation tragedies and accidents,” said Sen. Hoeven. “Despite efforts to boost recruitment, our nation has been unable to overcome attrition in the ATC workforce, and more needs to be done.”
The ATC Workforce Development Act of 2025, S. 697, which Sen. Hoeven sponsored alongside original cosponsors Sen. Moran and U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), would expand the ATC workforce training pipeline by codifying and strengthening the Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program.
The bill would authorize $20 million per year for grants to AT-CTI schools to invest in curriculum, high-fidelity simulators, faculty, and classroom supplies. The bill also would remove disincentives that discourage retired air traffic controllers from working as instructors at AT-CTI schools, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
Additionally, S. 697 would authorize the procurement and placement of Tower Simulator Systems at ATC facilities nationwide, supporting more efficient certification of ATC trainees; require the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to develop ATC recruitment and retention incentive programs; and support the development of mental health services equipped to address the particular stressors faced by the ATC workforce, the summary says.
“Our national airspace system relies on technology and individuals working in tandem to keep our skies safe and operating efficiently, and air traffic controllers are essential to that system,” Sen. Moran said. “The training, hiring, and retention of this critical workforce ought to be a continued priority of Congress, and I am pleased to join my colleagues in introducing legislation to support the current and future air traffic control industry.
“Continued investments in the programs and infrastructure supporting air traffic controllers will help to address workforce needs and keep our flying public safe,” added the senator.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association and the University of North Dakota (UND) support the ATC Workforce Development Act.
“Our legislation expands the capacity of schools like UND to get more controllers into FAA towers and radar facilities, while providing better benefits to support workers and boost recruitment and retention,” Sen. Daines said. “We worked hard to secure UND as a leader in the Enhanced AT-CTI program, and now we’re working to provide more resources to accelerate training, reduce the strain on our existing workforce, and ensure the American public can trust in the safety of our air transportation system.”
The legislation is supported by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, the Air Traffic Control Association, Airlines for America (A4A), and the Airports Council International – North America.