PASS President discusses FAA funding and workforce challenges

Dave Spero, National President of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS), joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the proposed $22 billion in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding, the need for more technicians and the challenges of upgrading the national airspace system.

The proposed $22 billion in FAA funding is a significant investment, but Spero questioned whether it would be sufficient for the extensive upgrades needed. He highlighted the complexity of the air traffic control system, which includes 21 centers, seven large terminal radar approach controls, 400 airport control towers and approximately 70,000 pieces of electronic equipment. Spero stressed that while funding is crucial, having enough skilled technicians to implement the upgrades is equally essential.

Spero noted that the message about the need for more technicians is finally getting through to policymakers. The FAA has created a workforce plan, estimating a need for an additional 800 technicians, though Spero believes this number may increase. He emphasized the importance of dedicated funding for hiring technicians instead of using a general operations budget that could be reallocated to other priorities.

The timeline for implementing these upgrades is ambitious, with plans to install 500 new radars and six air route traffic control centers in just four years. Spero expressed skepticism about this timeline's feasibility, given the projects' complexity and the lack of precedent for such rapid implementation. He stressed the importance of starting the process and making progress, even if the complete upgrades take longer than initially planned.

Listen to the full episode above for more from Spero on FAA funding and aviation safety.