In a report released by the Department of Defense Inspector General, concerns have been raised about the inability to hire and retain military air traffic controllers. The Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force have all reported that they cannot compete with Federal Aviation Administration positions. 

The average military rate is 43% lower than the FAA, making it difficult to retain skill positions. The report argues that the limits in staffing impacts readiness and national defense. 

“Improving the management of the ATC workforce will make the DOW more competitive in attracting and sustaining ATC specialists that support pilot training, airfield maintenance, and overseas operations, which may improve DOW readiness,” the report says. 

The War Department shortages coincide with shortages across the field, as the FAA also cites retention issues in keeping up their workforce, Task & Purpose reported. 

Marine Corps photo by Carla Perez Ramirez