Gamers Wanted for Air Traffic Control
Friday, 2026/04/17170 words3 minutes343 reads
The US government is recruiting video game players to become air traffic controllers as it struggles with a worker shortage. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) launched an advertising campaign targeting gamers when its hiring window opens next week.
The campaign features an ad that begins with the Xbox logo and shows people playing online games alongside air traffic controllers at work. "You've been training for this," the ad declares, highlighting a salary of $155,000 after three years of employment.
Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy explained that the FAA must adapt to reach the next generation of controllers. He said the strategy targets young adults who already possess many hard skills needed for success in the role. Air traffic controllers monitor aircraft to prevent collisions and ensure safety at airports, requiring quick decision-making under pressure.
The FAA currently faces a shortage of approximately 3,000 controllers, with twice that number expected to retire by 2028. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association supports this innovative recruitment approach, provided rigorous safety standards are maintained.
