Health

Why the U.S. doesn't have enough air traffic controllers

The U.S. has a shortage of air traffic controllers. There are currently 10,800 certified controllers but the country needs to have more than 14,000. A shortage of 26%. In 2023, the FAA announced the Enhanced Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative, which allows qualified schools to provide equivalent training. CNBC spoke with the FAA, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association and visited Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to see how students are being trained in air traffic control.

The U.S. has a shortage of air traffic controllers.

There are currently 10,800 certified controllers but the country needs to have more than 14,000. A shortage of 26%. In 2023, the FAA announced the Enhanced Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative, which allows qualified schools to provide equivalent training.

CNBC spoke with the FAA, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association and visited Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to see how students are being trained in air traffic control..