The Federal Aviation Administration has launched a job campaign aimed at video game enthusiasts to fill positions as air traffic controllers. The yearly recruitment period begins at midnight Eastern Time on April 17, described by the agency as an accelerated effort amid persistent staffing shortages. A promotional video on the FAA's YouTube channel highlights similarities between video gaming and managing aircraft movements, while pointing out that experienced controllers earn an average of $155,000 annually after three years on the job.
The recruitment materials appear tailored to individuals familiar with early 2010s gaming culture, such as the Xbox One console and League of Legends Championship Series player Bjergsen, suggesting a focus on candidates in their early twenties. This choice of references evokes a sense of targeted appeal to that generation.
"To attract the future workforce for air traffic control, adaptation is essential," stated U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. "This initiative employs a fresh approach in messaging and emphasizes gaming to connect with emerging groups of young people who possess key abilities required for effective performance in the role."
Since the 2010s, the FAA has experienced higher attrition rates among air traffic controllers than new hires and retentions, a situation that intensified during the 2020s pandemic, according to a December report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office. Despite annual increases in recruitment starting from 2021, the agency had 13,164 controllers at the close of 2025, marking a 6 percent decline from 2015 levels. Meanwhile, annual flights handled by the system rose approximately 10 percent to 30.8 million.
On its air traffic control recruitment website, the FAA describes the opportunity as: "Become part of the top-tier team of 14,000 specialists safeguarding 2.9 million travelers each day." Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, younger than 31 years old, and proficient in English. The selection process includes an aptitude assessment, health evaluation, and training at the FAA academy, along with other requirements.