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Staffing at air control tower was ‘not normal,’ according to FAA: report

An internal preliminary report from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has revealed concerning information regarding the staffing levels at the air control tower at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) in Arlington, Virginia. The report indicated that the number of staff members working at the tower was not normal for the time of day and volume of traffic.

This revelation comes in the wake of a tragic incident on Wednesday night, where an American Airlines plane and an Army helicopter collided near Reagan National Airport, resulting in the presumed deaths of all 67 individuals onboard both aircraft. The Associated Press obtained the report, which highlighted that one air traffic controller was handling two positions at the time of the crash, a task typically split between two controllers.

While the report suggested that the staffing configuration was not normal, a source familiar with the situation stated that staffing at the control tower on Wednesday night was at a normal level. The source explained that positions may be combined if controllers need to take breaks or are involved in shift changes. Additionally, supervisors have the authority to combine roles, as was the case on the night of the incident.

The air control tower at Reagan National has been facing staffing shortages for years, with only 19 fully certified controllers as of September 2023, despite a target of 30 set by the FAA and the controllers’ union. The FAA’s air traffic controller shortage is a widespread issue affecting many air traffic control facilities across the country, leading to delays and cancellations in air travel.

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Last year, Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle warned of potential issues during the summer season due to staffing shortages. He emphasized the need for addressing the shortage to improve efficiency and reduce delays in air travel. The shortage has been attributed to employee turnover, tight budgets, and other factors, resulting in controllers working long hours and multiple days in a week.

The FAA’s National Airspace System safety review team, established in April 2023, has highlighted the urgent need to address challenges such as staffing shortages, funding issues, and outdated technology to maintain safety standards. The team’s report emphasized the current erosion of safety margins in the National Airspace System due to these challenges, labeling the current level of safety as unsustainable.

Efforts to address the staffing shortage and improve technology in air traffic control are crucial for enhancing safety and efficiency in air travel. While technological advancements may offer long-term solutions, addressing the staffing issues is vital to prevent delays, cancellations, and safety risks in the aviation industry. The FAA and stakeholders must work together to prioritize safety and ensure a sustainable level of safety in the National Airspace System.

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