Is the Federal Aviation Administration understating the most recent troubles regarding the hiring of Air Traffic Controllers?
The FAA contends that they have not had any issues hiring enough replacement staff. However, the FAA is offering a signing bonus for people who have had previous experience in controlling aircraft.
“Applicants with 52 consecutive weeks experience within the last two years as a Certified Air Traffic Controller with Certified Tower Operator (CTO)/radar certification may be considered for a recruitment incentive of up to $20,000, paid as a lump sum upon appointment or in installments over a two year period.”
Online advertisements have also been seen on social networking sites such as MySpace.com and Facebook.com indicating that the FAA is having to hire people off the street to serve as Air Traffic Control Specialist.
Given the current relations between the FAA and the Air Traffic Controllers, the current bonus offering to certain individuals and not new hires might further erode any goodwill between the two groups.
National Air Traffic Controllers Association President Patrick Forrey said, "More troubling, however, is the fact that this only serves to drive a bigger wedge between the FAA and its new hires who weren't offered such an incentive bonus."
NATCA.org
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