FAA delaying start of new US air traffic control rest requirements

The U.S FAA said on Wednesday it was delaying requirements for air traffic controllers to get at least 10 hours off between shifts and 12 hours off before a midnight shift as it grapples with a staffing shortage. The new rules had been put in place after an independent review of fatigue issues called for new minimum rest periods. Those had been due to start by mid-July, but have been delayed due to discussions between the FAA and a union representing controllers. The FAA is struggling to address a persistent shortage of air traffic controllers and a series of near-miss incidents, including some reported to be the result of controller errors. Under current rules, controllers handling active airplanes must get an eight or nine-hour break between shifts in most instances. FAA Air Traffic Organization COO Timothy Arel said the move to require more hours off between shifts would be delayed as the agency holds discussions with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) union. The hope is to come to a joint agreement on new rest periods for the 2025 schedule "or sooner where feasible," Arel said, adding "fatigue is no exception and must be taken seriously." A NATCA spokesperson said the union was not consulted in advance of the FAA determination regarding time off from duty before all shifts. "We have asked for a briefing on the scientific materials and data relied upon in the FAA's decision," the union said.<br/>NATCA added it would work with the FAA "to review the data and attempt to collaboratively develop requirements to provide sufficient time off-duty before all shifts."<br/>