A new report from the City of Austin’s auditor’s office has raised concerns about staffing levels at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). The report pointed out that the vacancy rate in the city’s aviation department more than doubled between 2020 and 2023. Although there has been some improvement this year, the maintenance section of the airport was identified as facing significant challenges.
According to the report, there may not be enough skilled workers or contractors available to carry out specialized maintenance work at the airport. In some cases, staff members are being assigned tasks that are outside their expertise or regular responsibilities. The report cited the lengthy hiring process and non-competitive pay as reasons for the staffing issues.
In addition to staffing concerns, the report also highlighted the fact that key workers at the airport are either nearing retirement age or have already surpassed it. This raises concerns about the potential loss of institutional knowledge and experience within the aviation department.
The report also touched upon safety issues at the airport, noting that there were two worker deaths reported in 2023, as well as several on-the-job injuries. Muscle strains were identified as the most common type of workplace injury at AUS.
In response to the findings of the report, the leadership at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport expressed gratitude to the audit team for their assessment. They emphasized that airports are complex environments and that they are continuously working to mitigate risks, enhance resiliency, and strengthen operations to meet the needs of the community and travelers.
Looking ahead, AUS leadership expressed their commitment to collaborating with the audit team to address the identified risks and bolster their operations. They acknowledged the rapid growth and dynamic changes in the aviation industry and stressed the importance of working together to ensure the safety and efficiency of the airport.
It is clear from the report that addressing staffing concerns and prioritizing safety are crucial for the continued success of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. By taking proactive measures to attract and retain skilled workers, as well as implementing strategies to prevent workplace injuries, AUS can ensure that it remains a safe and reliable hub for travelers.