In 2025, FAB CE completed its benchmarking on the ATCO career lifecycle, following earlier work on selection (2023) and training (2024). 

 The activity identified key challenges, including regulatory constraints, limited career development strategies, and difficulties in engaging operational staff in additional roles.

To address these issues, FAB CE defined several recommendations:

  • Use of retired ATCOs as trainers or experts to retain knowledge and support operations
  • Short-term exchange programmes to enable knowledge sharing across ANSPs
  • Development of career pathways into expert and management roles
  • More flexible rostering for ageing ATCOs
  • A holistic career approach starting early and considering future skill needs, including automation

Looking Ahead

FAB CE will continue to build on these findings through ongoing collaboration. Starting in 2026, annual meetings involving HR and training experts will ensure consistent follow-up across all three benchmarking areas: selection, training, and career lifecycle. By fostering cooperation and sharing best practices, FAB CE aims to strengthen the resilience, attractiveness, and sustainability of the ATCO profession—ensuring that European air traffic management remains safe, efficient, and future-ready.

"Sustainable ATM performance depends not only on technology, but on how we attract, develop, and retain people throughout the entire ATCO career lifecycle. Through collaboration and shared learning, FAB CE is helping shape a more resilient and future-ready profession. This benchmarking study has provided valuable insights and practical recommendations for all participating ANSPs and I am very pleased that we will continue the cooperation and follow-up activities in the coming years to ensure tangible progress and long-term impact", concludes Marina Morić, FAB CE HR Sub Committee chair.