In the bustling world of air traffic control, where precision is paramount and just one misstep can lead to calamity, the stakes have never been higher. Jonathan Stewart, an air traffic controller based in Philadelphia, recently shed light on the mental toll that comes along with this high-pressure job. With over two decades of experience under his belt, Stewart has witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by air traffic controllers, particularly in the Newark Airport area. His recent time off, due to trauma leave, has sparked a conversation about the mental health of those charged with keeping the skies safe.
Like many in his profession, Stewart finds great pride in his work. He likens some days to being a “rockstar,” seamlessly guiding airplanes through the busy sky. However, not all days are smooth sailing. After a series of radar and radio outages at Newark Airport, several controllers—including Stewart—felt the effects of stress and trauma. The pressure of ensuring that all aircraft are securely navigated became too much for some, leading to what Stewart emphasized was not a voluntary “walking off the job,” but rather a necessary step away from a role that, at times, becomes overwhelming.
The stresses of the job have reached such a critical point that even Stewart himself found it necessary to take time off. On a particularly harrowing day, two aircraft nearly collided under his supervision. The sheer weight of that responsibility can be suffocating. As forces beyond his control collided—both literally and metaphorically—he was left grappling with feelings of fear and anxiety. This incident, he noted, isn’t just a simple mistake but reflects a complex web of fatigue and the pressures of working in a high-stakes environment.
In recent discussions, Stewart expressed that challenges like long hours and inadequate staffing only add to the anxiety that controllers feel. Despite earning top salaries—up to $400,000—he points out that these figures often come at the cost of personal sacrifice, including long hours away from family and friends. This demanding work environment takes a heavy toll on mental and physical health, and Stewart is quick to report that these stressors can turn a rewarding profession into a debilitating one.
Fortunately, there seems to be a glimmer of hope for controllers facing these challenges. The Federal Aviation Administration is taking measures to address the issues seen at Newark and its surrounding areas. With plans to improve equipment and bolster staffing, Stewart believes these changes could lead to a brighter future for air traffic control. In a field where every decision counts, the focus on mental health and adequate support could be the key to ensuring controllers are not merely surviving but thriving. In the end, Stewart summarizes the importance of investing in air traffic professionals, making a compelling case for why they deserve better working conditions and support to keep everyone flying safe.
