IFATCA EVP Europe on the European Staff Shortage

The European Member Associations of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers' Associations, IFATCA, have participated in a survey on the current staffing shortages in the region.

The results were compiled on an interactive map, which can be consulted via https://www.ifatca.org/staff-shortage-survey-eur-region. The expected 15% traffic increase for summer 2023, combined with the ongoing war in Ukraine and the related airspace restrictions, will very likely challenge the whole European airspace system over the coming months.

"This is a timely contribution by the Air Traffic Controllers in Europe to get an overview of the staffing figures and help to understand some of the systemic staffing issues the European ATM faces. Not only might there be a shortage of ATCOs unreported, but as well the demography of the current workforce outlines the challenges for the future staffing situation,” says IFATCA EVP Europe, Frédéric Deleau.

Further interesting information on mobility of ATCOs have been discussed in the recent webinar organised by EUROCONTROL.

“Air Traffic Controllers will need to be involved in addressing the challenges and in finding solutions to allow them to ensure European air traffic can continue in the safest possible circumstances”, continues Mr. Deleau. IFATCA stands ready to discuss this information, particularly regarding the challenges through the European Commission's RP4 target-setting process.