New Report Highlights Air Traffic Controller Shortage at Austin Airport

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is constantly growing as new travelers make their way to the airport. With the changes coming to the airfield, the workforce has to match the growth as well. But, it appears that one area of the airport needs immediate attention.

What Part Of The Austin Airport Needs Fixing?

According to KXAN, the Austin Airport has a massive shortage of one thing: Air Traffic Controllers. According to Lloyd Doggett, a representative from the state:

“We have some more trainees coming in, but we don’t have the controllers that we need. We’re still at less than half the number that the FAA recommends for safety. There’s not the margin of safety.”

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At the time of writing, KXAN did make an attempt to reach out to the FAA for a comment, but they haven't responded. How bad has it gotten however?

What Are The Concerns Over Air Traffic Controllers In Austin?

According to Doggett:

“Our controllers are overworked and understaffed. We’ve had six near misses at the Austin airport. I don’t want the seventh one to be a catastrophe because of the failure to provide enough air traffic controllers.”

KXAN also reports that 14,000 Air Traffic Controllers are employed in the United States. However, what complicates the situation is that the FAA isn't accepting new applications. So it remains to be seen if the situation is going to continue to worsen or improve.

As this is developing story, we will have more information if it becomes available.