Staffing challenges and the current workforce shortage were among the topics under discussion at the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) Industry Town Hall meeting held this week at Signature Flight Support in Englewood, Colorado. “The Denver turnout and resulting conversations reflect the importance of going out to our members and other aviation professionals to identify industry priorities,” said Michael France, NATA managing director of safety and training.

Personnel challenges have been a recurring theme for the NATA members, said Timothy Obitts, NATA executive vice president and general counsel. The issue also was a focus at the association's recent town hall in Austin, Texas, and will be highlighted at NATA's annual meeting and aviation business conference to be held from June 12 to 14 in Washington, D.C. The annual conference will also cover other emerging issues and include meetings on Capitol Hill.

“NATA...wants to encourage the next generation of aviation leaders to join in the conversations by attending the conference and future town halls. To make it more affordable for young professionals to attend the Aviation Business Conference, NATA is offering half off the conference registration fee,” Obitts said.

Upcoming town hall meetings will be held in San Diego (April 19); Minneapolis (May 10); Bedford, Massachusetts (September 13); Atlanta (September 25); and Fort Lauderdale, Florida (November 15).