FAA and NATCA Agree to 2.8% Controller Pay Raise

The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association reached an agreement on October 16, 2026, to provide air traffic controllers with a 2.8% pay increase. The deal resolves compensation disputes while introducing new operational mandates to improve workforce management.

Under the terms of the agreement, controllers must now badge in and badge out of their facilities to track attendance and presence. The deal also establishes a coordination system where local managers and union representatives will align shifts with expected workloads and operational requirements. This measure aims to maximize staffing coverage during peak traffic hours to ensure aviation safety and efficiency.