The FAA is bringing back its Flight Deck Training program, allowing air traffic controllers to sit behind pilots and experience firsthand the challenges of flying an aircraft.
The goal? Better communication between pilots and controllers — and safer skies.
Controllers will observe cockpit procedures, pilot workload, and how ATC instructions affect flight crews, especially during busy approaches and runway changes.
The program was previously suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, with support from the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), the FAA plans to restart it after Thanksgiving.
Controllers will be able to apply for approved jumpseat flights on commercial, general aviation, and military aircraft, subject to security checks and annual participation limits.
Why does this matter? An instruction that sounds simple from the control tower can add significant workload inside the cockpit. Experiencing that reality firsthand could help controllers make better-informed decisions and improve coordination with pilots.
