Subject: Proposed Solutions to Workforce and Operational Challenges in the FAA
The FAA and the aviation industry are at a critical juncture. Long-standing challenges, particularly workforce shortages and operational inefficiencies, are threatening the sector’s capacity to sustain growth and ensure safety. However, these issues can be resolved without significant regulatory changes by utilizing existing tools and resources.

The Following Practical Steps Will Help Enhance Efficiency & Safety:

On-Site Training and Collaboration:
Develop formal on-site training programs that take place at both FAA offices and industry facilities. This collaborative approach will foster transparency, build trust, and deepen mutual understanding of certification and compliance requirements and processes. By engaging in hands-on learning at each other’s locations, both parties can streamline communication and drive faster, more effective decision-making.

Maximize Use of Existing Resources:
Fully leverage the FAA’s Risk-Based Resource Management (RBRM) system by promoting agreements between the FAA and applicants, applicants and designees to assume more responsibilities in lower-risk areas, ensuring the FAA can focus on safety-critical issues.

Maximize Use of Existing Resources:
Fully leverage the FAA’s Risk-Based Resource Management (RBRM) system by promoting agreements between the FAA and applicants, applicants and designees to assume more responsibilities in lower-risk areas, ensuring the FAA can focus on safety-critical issues.

Empowering Designees and Expanding the Workforce:
Engage and empower the FAA’s network of Designees—highly experienced professionals who help maintain safety and regulatory standards. Strengthening the Designee system through targeted outreach and training to enhance collaboration, reduce inefficiencies, and ensure a steady pipeline of technical talent.

By taking these steps, the FAA can efficiently and effectively address current workforce shortages, improve operational efficiency, encourage compliance, develop trust, establish transparency, and ensure that the U.S. retains its position in global aviation. These solutions can be implemented with existing resources and systems, without rulemaking or regulatory changes.
Sincerely,

Jonathon Matlach
President
860-238-1893
jmatlach@aerotech-consulting.com