Investing in the FAA\u2019s Technical Operations and Aviation Safety employees can create lasting change for the aviation community and build confidence in the FAA\u2019s ability to provide new services and technologies, National President Dave Spero told Congress today.<\/p>\n
PASS represents 11,000 FAA employees across the agency. Technical employees in the Air Traffic Organization\u2019s (ATO) Technical Operations install, maintain, repair and certify the radar, navigation, communication and power systems making up the National Airspace System (NAS). PASS also represents aviation safety inspectors and other employees within the Office of Aviation Safety (AVS). Aviation safety inspectors are responsible for certification, oversight, surveillance and enforcement of the entire aviation system.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe work of FAA technicians is vital to the safe and efficient operation of the NAS,\u201d said President Spero. \u201cSufficiently staffing this workforce can lead to the upgrade of the NAS in a much more efficient and cost-effective manner.\u201d To that end, PASS is asking that the FAA be directed to establish a Technical Operations Workforce Plan and consult with PASS in its creation and implementation.<\/p>\n
The PASS leader also addressed his concerns about the FAA\u2019s inability to effectively and consistently staff the inspector workforce, and the agency itself has recognized the need to maintain a robust inspector workforce.<\/p>\n