Today’s announcement is incredibly welcomed news. The potential to add more air traffic controllers into the system through these schools will address the shortage much more efficiently. We appreciate Administrator Whitaker’s bold leadership and focus on this important issue. A4A has been working with the FAA and the current CTI institutions to reinvigorate the program to allow for qualified graduates to be hired directly into FAA facilities. Carriers thrive when the system thrives, and addressing the air traffic controller shortage is critical to preserving and expanding a healthy aviation system. A4A sees CTI as the first of many initiatives for industry and government to work on together to keep our system safe.