He says there’s historically been a shortage of air traffic controllers, but the most significant shortages have taken place within the past decade, and it’s for many reasons that don’t include a lack of people who want the six-figure paying job that doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree.

The head of the air traffic controllers union is warning of understaffing following the deadly midair crash near Reagan National Airport.

Air controller Tyler Casper controls the taxi ways from the 150-foot control tower in 2008. Last week’s mid-air collision highlighted the air traffic controller shortage but FAA documents show Sacramento’s staffing is above its “staffing standards target.”