The FAA has hired more than 2,000 people with gaming backgrounds, reaching roughly 94% of its recruitment target, with about 2,000 additional candidates in the pipeline. A GAO report notes air traffic controllers fell about 6% over the past decade while flights relying on controller-managed airspace rose about 10%, contributing to delays. The FAA's new three-part workforce strategy emphasizes expanded hiring, and officials say gamers' multitasking and interface skills align with several controller duties.
Gamers to the Towers: FAA Hires 2,000+ Players to Help Ease Controller Shortage
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The Federal Aviation Administration has tapped thousands of people with gaming backgrounds to help address a growing shortage of air traffic controllers. Since launching a recruitment push in April aimed at players comfortable with complex screens and fast decision-making, the FAA says it has hired more than 2,000 applicants — roughly 94% of its immediate hiring goal — with about 2,000 more candidates currently progressing through the hiring pipeline.
According to news reports, the initiative is part of a broader effort to bolster staffing after a decade that saw fewer controllers working the towers and increased air traffic. The U.S. Government Accountability Office reports that the number of air traffic controllers fell by about 6% over the past decade, while flights that rely on controller-managed airspace rose by roughly 10%, contributing to more delays, diversions and cancellations for travelers.
A retired air traffic controller and now professor of air traffic management at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University described the role as a "good job with good benefits," noting it requires high levels of concentration and technical skill.
In May the FAA unveiled a three-part workforce strategy to address the staffing shortfall, with expansion through targeted hiring a central pillar of that plan. The gaming recruitment campaign is one part of the FAA's larger approach to restore staffing levels and improve operational resilience.
Why Gamers?
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy told reporters that many of the tasks gamers practice — managing multiple controls, reacting quickly to changing situations, and interpreting dense visual information — map closely to the core demands of air traffic control.
"A lot of what they do playing games is also what is done controlling traffic in the air," Duffy said, calling the early hiring results "historic."
While gaming experience can indicate useful aptitudes, the FAA emphasizes that all new hires must still complete rigorous training and certification, meet medical and security requirements, and graduate from the FAA Academy before taking on operational responsibilities.
As the initiative continues, FAA officials say the additional hires and pipeline candidates are expected to help reduce staffing-driven disruptions and strengthen air traffic operations over the coming months.
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