Air Traffic Controllers Get 2.8% Raise in Exchange for Work Changes

The FAA and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association agreed to a 2.8% pay increase for controllers, effective October 18 and retroactive to the start of the year. The raise follows earlier pay increases and will result in back-pay payments for eligible workers. In exchange, the agreement introduces workplace changes: controllers must badge in and out, managers and union representatives will align schedules with expected workload, and reassignments will prioritize facilities with the greatest staffing needs. The changes are intended to improve workforce accountability and coverage as the government seeks to hire more controllers and address staffing shortages.