WASHINGTON D.C.—U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), alongside Representatives Nick Begich (R-Ala.), Tracey Mann (R-Kan.), and Maggie Goodlander (D-N.H.), introduced the Air Traffic Controller Workforce Development Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation to tackle the nation’s air traffic controller staffing shortage and invest in the future of American aviation.
The legislation codifies and expands the FAA’s Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI), improves recruitment and retention incentives, funds tower simulator systems, and supports mental health services for air traffic controllers which addresses one of the most serious safety risks currently facing U.S. airspace.
“Our air traffic controllers are the best in the world, and they work hard to ensure a smooth and safe journey for all travelers. But controllers in Arizona and nationally have sounded the alarm for years about staffing shortages that have left them overworked and under-supported,” said Congressman Stanton. “The bipartisan Air Traffic Control Workforce Development Act is an overdue investment in the recruitment and retention of highly-qualified controllers—their training, professional development and well-being.”
"Safe, reliable air travel is core to life in Alaska. Whether it’s delivering food and supplies to remote villages or ensuring medevac services reach those in need, air traffic controllers are essential to our state," said Congressman Begich. “The Air Traffic Control Workforce Development Act of 2025 is a commonsense solution to a national challenge. It strengthens the safety of our skies by making forward-looking investments to ensure we train and support highly skilled professionals. By training the next generation of controllers now, we’re building a safer, more connected future for every American.”
The FAA currently employs 2,300 fewer Certified Professional Controllers (CPCs) than needed and continues to fall below its hiring and certification targets. The shortage has forced many controllers to work mandatory overtime, leading to fatigue and increasing the risk of errors. This bipartisan bill will help reverse that trend by expanding training pipelines, improving training equipment, and placing high-fidelity simulators across the country to accelerate training timelines.
The ATC Workforce Development Act:
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Authorizes $20 million annually in grants for AT-CTI schools to invest in curriculum, simulators, and instructors.
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Removes penalties that discourage retired air traffic controllers from becoming ATC instructors.
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Expands the use of Tower Simulator Systems (TSS) to help certify new air traffic controllers more efficiently.
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Directs the FAA to develop incentive programs for controller recruitment, certification, and retention.
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Supports mental health services tailored to the high-stress nature of ATC work.
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Requires curriculum modernization and FAA oversight of CTI training standards.
The bill is backed by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), Air Traffic Control Association (ATCA), Airlines for America (A4A), American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), and others in the aviation sector.
A fact sheet is HERE. Full text of the bill HERE.