Musk's Call to Retired Controllers Amid FAA Crisis

Elon Musk has called for retired air traffic controllers to return to work amid a severe shortage that has raised flight safety concerns, particularly after a series of recent aviation incidents. This shortage has been exacerbated by staffing cuts initiated by the Trump administration, which eliminated hundreds of FAA jobs, though air traffic controllers were not among those directly let go. Musk's appeal is part of broader efforts by the FAA and the Department of Transportation to address workforce deficits by raising salaries and extending work age limits for controllers. The FAA plans to increase salaries by 30% and commence new hiring to address the shortfall, which is expected to persist into the 2030s. Despite these efforts, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association argues that a long-term commitment to hiring and training is essential to resolve the crisis. Critics, however, view Musk's appeal as impractical, given the stringent regulatory requirements for air traffic controllers, including mandatory retirement ages and physical exams.