Two U.S. senators urged increased funding and staffing for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) following a fatal midair collision near Washington Reagan National Airport on January 29. The crash, involving an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army helicopter, killed 67 people—the deadliest U.S. air disaster in over 20 years.
In a letter first reported by Reuters, Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D) and John Hoeven (R) called on the FAA to work with Congress to boost funding, modernize facilities, and expand training. They highlighted a critical shortage of air traffic controllers, with the FAA currently 3,500 controllers below target levels. Nearly all control towers face staffing shortages, with Reagan National’s tower operating below its 30-controller goal.
“Controllers often work six-day weeks and ten-hour days,” the senators wrote. “Fatigue and stress will only worsen without urgent action.”
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said he is reviewing rules that allowed air traffic control supervisors to reduce staffing before the crash. Two positions were consolidated for helicopters and aircraft prior to the accident.
“We’re pulling back that authority to ensure safety,” Duffy stated, adding that the FAA still relies on outdated technology. He plans to accelerate training, increase applicants, and introduce incentives to retain experienced controllers.
Potential measures include raising the mandatory retirement age of 56. The FAA has not yet responded to the senators’ concerns.
Also read: White House to Nominate Financial Regulators for Key Roles
