The potential vulnerabilities of air traffic control systems have come into sharp focus, with industry experts warning that the situation at airports like Newark could easily replicate itself elsewhere.
With major airports like Atlanta (ATL), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX), and Chicago facing similar communication issues, there is a growing concern that modernization may be overdue.
As of September 2023, the air traffic control tower at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport was reportedly only 69% staffed, according to figures from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
In comparison, the national staffing average stands at approximately 74%.
Staffing challenges become even more pronounced when considering that Atlanta’s terminal radar approach control facility (TRACON) in Peachtree City operates at about 63% staffing while its air route traffic control center (ARTCC) in Hampton is faring better at nearly 90%.
Mary Schiavo, an aviation attorney with Motley Rice and former U.S. Department of Transportation inspector general, noted that Atlanta is somewhat average in terms of staffing levels.
However, she pointed out that its desirability as an employment location—thanks to its livability and status as the world’s busiest airport—gives it an edge in attracting talent.
Pay scales for air traffic controllers in Atlanta are among the highest in the country, making the city a more appealing option for workers.
“Workers don’t avoid Atlanta as they do other locations,” Schiavo explained.
However, there are underlying concerns. According to aviation expert Daniel, even if Atlanta has an advantage in staffing levels, the city is not immune from systemic issues affecting air traffic control facilities nationwide.
“All air traffic control facilities share the same outdated infrastructure,” he warned, referring to the aging copper wire systems found in airports like Newark.
Given Atlanta’s high volume of air traffic and its interconnectedness with U.S. airspace, even minor disruptions at distant airports can create a domino effect, severely impacting operations at Hartsfield-Jackson.
“Air traffic control is the ultimate team sport,” Daniels emphasized, explaining that quick resolutions to issues are critical in avoiding far-reaching consequences for Atlanta.
Despite these challenges, a recently retired Atlanta-based air traffic controller, wishing to remain anonymous to protect job prospects, shared insight into the conditions at Hartsfield-Jackson.
He noted that the facilities in both the tower and TRACON were relatively modern, constructed in 2001 and 2006 respectively.
Despite the occasional breakdowns, such as elevator issues in the tower, he claimed that the structures themselves are not as outdated as those in many other cities.
However, when it comes to technology, the situation is less encouraging.
Controllers in Atlanta still rely on paper strips to track flights, despite advancements allowing for digital tracking systems in other countries.
According to the FAA, a nationwide upgrade to digital strips is set for Atlanta next April.
The retiree remarked on the effective layout of Hartsfield-Jackson, which allows for efficient movement of aircraft despite the ongoing challenges.
However, staffing shortages have created tangible pressures affecting the quality of life for controllers.
“It’s very stressful,” he said, highlighting the lack of breaks needed during high-pressure periods like thunderstorm season.
The need for better resources was evident, with controllers struggling to balance work and personal life.
“They’re really tired, and they need a break. They need help,” the retiree added.
Daniels echoed these sentiments, noting that despite the unprecedented federal support for overhauling air traffic control, worker morale has reached unprecedented lows.
“Controllers are working six days a week, often clocking 60 hours and only getting four days off each month,” Daniels lamented.
And while travelers board their flights, the tireless efforts and sacrifices of the controllers often go unrecognized.
image source from：https://www.ajc.com/business/2025/06/understaffed-tired-but-middle-of-the-pack-inside-atlantas-air-traffic-control-tower/
