Minorities are underrepresented in the air traffic control (ATC) workforce, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been working to increase diversity:
- Demographics
In 2022, 73% of air traffic controllers were White, with 9.74% Black and 9.58% Two or More Races. The workforce is predominantly White male.
- FAA’s efforts
The FAA has launched campaigns to recruit more women and minorities and has created programs and initiatives to support employees from diverse backgrounds. The FAA also hosts an annual Diversity and Inclusion Symposium.
- Challenges
The number of federal ATCS has been declining since 2012. This threatens the aviation economy, which could lead to more canceled flights and delays.
- Recommendations
Some recommendations for improving diversity in aviation include:
- Continuing to recruit, mentor, and retain women and minority students
- Collecting data on the participation of minorities in aviation
- Studying why improvement has slowed
- National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees (NBCFAE)
The NBCFAE promotes equal employment opportunities, and offers members training, mentorship, networking, and scholarships.