Concerns are growing among air traffic controllers about the FAA’s hiring practices and “immunity program,” which some believe contributed to the deadly January 29 midair collision near Washington National Airport, killing 67 people.
Critics argue the FAA’s emphasis on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) during the Obama administration led to hiring less qualified controllers and a staffing shortage. Combined with the immunity program, these factors are seen as contributing to the crash.
A 2023 report revealed controllers were struggling with staffing shortages, making last-minute flight changes that raised safety concerns. It also highlighted 19 serious near-misses in 2023 alone.
The FAA’s changes to the Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) have sparked a class action lawsuit, with former controller Michael Pearson blaming air traffic control failures for the crash.
