Scary! This Michigan Airport Might Be Dangerous!

We have heard a lot of talk about a huge air traffic controller shortage in our U.S. airports, and no mirage, it's true and a bit dangerous for the flying public, don't you think.

I found a conversation thread on Reddit.com about the shortage with the discussion regarding the most understaffed air traffic control towers in the U.S. It's a little scary, but  Michigan has the number 10 most understaffed tower, and that might be dangerous.

Traverse City's Cherry Capital airport is the tower ranking at number 10 as one of the most understaffed, and it's worrisome.

If I'm reading the map correctly the Traverse City Cherry Capitol  Airport is only about 60 to 65 percent staffed.

Air Traffic Control Shortages
byu/plaev inMapPorn

Traverse City is growing and the airport has been adding more flights. Sure, it's not at the level of Michigan's largest airports, Detroit and Grand Rapids, for flights and annual passengers. It is, however, getting busier and with an understaffed control tower of controllers, it's concerning.

Grand Rapids' Ford Airport, by the way, seems to rank at about 71 to 75 percent staffed, and Detroit at 81 to 85 percent staffed.

We all know the job of an air traffic controller is a big job with lots of pressure. It is a high paying, six figure job usually, with good benefits and retirement program, but the training, course work, mental assessments, among other things, take three to four years, according to Forbes.

The government is actively trying to hire more air traffic controllers but it seems that as many retire as get hired and we are barely keeping our heads above water.

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And then there is the problem of the nearly antiquated equipment that the controllers have to work with. What are we to do?

My wife, Susie, and I are semi-frequent flyers and I know we sure want to feel safe in our skies. Let's hope things get pushed along for all our safety.