Is there a shortage of Air Traffic Controllers?

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Yes, many regions globally, including the US, are facing significant ATC staffing challenges. Reports often highlight facilities being below target staffing levels.
A major factor is the 'retirement wave' – a large cohort of controllers hired decades ago (e.g., after the 1981 PATCO strike in the US) are now reaching mandatory or optional retirement age.
The training pipeline is long and demanding. Limited academy slots and bottlenecks in on-the-job training (OJT) at busy facilities make it slow to replace retiring controllers and meet growing demand.
Air traffic is generally increasing globally, requiring more controllers to manage the volume safely and efficiently, further straining existing staffing levels.

Why ATC Remains an Attractive Career

Despite shortages, ATC remains a highly desirable career due to its excellent compensation package, including competitive salaries, robust health benefits, and strong retirement plans (like pensions in federal roles).
Controllers enjoy significant job security, particularly within government agencies, as air traffic management is a critical and enduring national infrastructure function.
The role offers immense responsibility and a unique sense of purpose, directly contributing to the safety of thousands of travelers daily in a challenging, dynamic environment.

How ATCAT Helps

1

Experience at all levels of the application process.

ATCAT directly tackles the complex application barrier by providing clear guidance, tracking tools, and organizational aids, helping more potentially qualified candidates successfully navigate the initial stages.

2

Play to Learn

We significantly improve candidate readiness for critical aptitude tests (like the AT-SA) through targeted simulations and practice modules, addressing a major point of failure in the recruitment pipeline.

3

Become the 'whole package'.

By offering comprehensive preparation resources for interviews, academy knowledge, and foundational OJT skills (like phraseology), ATCAT increases the likelihood of candidates successfully completing the rigorous training process and becoming certified controllers, thus boosting overall numbers.