"Overworked Air Traffic Controllers Fuel Surge in Airport Near-Misses"

The US is experiencing a surge in aircraft near-misses due to a severe shortage of air traffic controllers, who claim they are being pushed to their limits physically and mentally. Incidents of controllers sleeping and drinking on the job, fights breaking out in control towers, and poor working conditions have been reported. Staffing shortages have led to controllers working long hours, irregular schedules, and experiencing exhaustion and mental health issues. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) denies the report, stating that flying has never been safer. However, internal data shows a 65% increase in significant air traffic control lapses. The FAA has pledged to address the staffing shortage and improve safety measures.