The Federal Aviation Administration has collaborated with Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. This agreement is significant in addressing the growing demand for air traffic controllers.
Embry–Riddle joins Tulsa Community College and the University of Oklahoma in offering enhanced training programs.
The Enhanced Air Traffic—Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program will provide students with advanced technology and training.
Its curriculum mirrors that at the FAA Air Traffic Controller Academy in Oklahoma City, and graduates will benefit from a faster path to certification.
This initiative helps streamline the workforce pipeline. Graduates of Enhanced AT-CTI programs no longer need to take the FAA Academy’s introductory course. Instead, they can directly begin their on-the-job training at FAA facilities.
Tim Arel, Chief Operating Officer of the FAA’s Air Traffic Organization, emphasized the program’s importance.
“Strengthening our controller workforce is essential for safety,” Arel said. “Working with top schools ensures we meet our mission.”
Students in this program face rigorous requirements. They must pass the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) exam and meet strict medical and security standards.
After meeting these requirements, students complete performance verifications to prove they are job-ready. Only then can they receive an official endorsement certificate, which allows them to report directly to an FAA facility for further training.
This direct pathway saves time and improves efficiency. It differs significantly from the Standard AT-CTI program. That program requires graduates to attend the Oklahoma City Academy for basic training.
The FAA continues to focus on building its workforce. In 2023, the agency hired 1,500 new controllers. By 2024, that number increased to over 1,800.
The FAA has set ambitious goals for the coming years. It plans to hire 2,000 new controllers in 2025. These initiatives seek to guarantee the security of the National Airspace System (NAS).
The agency has also modernized its training methods. Advanced simulators now play a crucial role in training new hires. These tools help streamline the learning process and improve results.
The FAA is also expanding its pool of candidates. It offers year-round opportunities for experienced controllers, including those transitioning from the military or private sector.
Embry–Riddle’s inclusion in this initiative highlights its reputation in aviation education. The university is well-known for its solid programs and state-of-the-art facilities. It brings decades of expertise to the Enhanced AT-CTI program.
Students at Embry–Riddle will benefit from cutting-edge resources, including advanced simulation labs and experienced instructors. The program also emphasizes real-world application and practical skills.
The FAA’s collaboration with Embry–Riddle reflects its commitment to innovation. This partnership demonstrates how education and technology can meet workforce demands.
Together, they address one of aviation’s most pressing challenges.
The need for skilled air traffic controllers has grown significantly as the volume of air traffic increases yearly. Safety and efficiency in the NAS rely on having enough trained professionals.
The Enhanced AT-CTI program helps meet this demand. It offers a faster, more efficient path to certification. Graduates enter the workforce quicker, reducing delays in the hiring process.
This partnership benefits more than just students. Airlines and passengers also gain from having a robust air traffic control system. Fewer delays and smoother operations improve the overall travel experience.
The FAA continues to accept applications from other schools for Enhanced AT-CTI status. Colleges and universities nationwide can apply online anytime, ensuring a steady expansion of the program’s reach.
Schools like Embry–Riddle set the standard for future applicants. Their dedication to aviation excellence makes them an ideal partner for the FAA. Other institutions can learn from their approach to training.
The FAA is taking proactive steps to prepare for the future. Combining modern training methods with strategic partnerships creates a sustainable workforce pipeline for years to ensure safety and efficiency.
Embry–Riddle’s role in this initiative cannot be understated. The university will produce graduates who are well-prepared for the challenges of air traffic control. Its students will be among the best in the field.
The Enhanced AT-CTI program is vital to the FAA’s broader strategy. It focuses on innovation, efficiency, and collaboration. These efforts position the agency to meet future challenges head-on.
The FAA’s investment in programs like this reflects its commitment to aviation safety. Air traffic controllers play a vital role in managing the skies, and ensuring their training and readiness is essential to the agency’s mission.
The benefits will become increasingly apparent as the FAA and Embry–Riddle partnership unfolds. Both the aviation industry and the traveling public stand to gain.
The Enhanced AT-CTI program offers an incredible opportunity for aspiring controllers. It provides a clear, efficient path to a rewarding career. With partnerships like these, the future of aviation looks brighter than ever.