Following two near-miss incidents at major Northeast airports, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced new rules requiring air traffic controllers to take more time off between shifts. This decision comes after an expert panel highlighted fatigue as a significant concern within the system.
Just last week, a near miss at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, occurred when an air traffic controller cleared a plane to cross the same runway where another was preparing to take off. In response, the FAA has announced new requirements for charter and commuter airlines to implement a safety plan to identify hazards and manage risks.
FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker emphasized the need to address fatigue risk in the system, stating that even with full staffing, current scheduling practices create such risks. He is requiring a minimum of 10 hours off between shifts – and 12 hours for midnight shifts – following a report that raised concerns about fatigue.
Experts have welcomed this move, highlighting the importance of ensuring that air traffic controllers are well-rested. However, the National Association representing air traffic controllers has expressed concerns about the potential for coverage gaps in air traffic facilities’ schedules, as there is currently a shortage of controllers.
The FAA is addressing this shortage by accelerating hiring and plans to hire 1,800 more air traffic controllers this year. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association is urging Congress to further address the crisis by requiring the FAA to hire the maximum number of air traffic controllers over the next five years.
The FAA is also investigating the recent close calls at Reagan National and JFK airports to further enhance safety measures and prevent future incidents.
