City auditors highlight AUS staffing issues that poses 'risk'

AUSTIN (KXAN) — A new report from the City of Austin’s auditor's office showed risks at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), especially regarding staffing levels.

The report noted the vacancy rate for the city's aviation department more than doubled between 2020 and 2023, and while it has improved this year, the maintenance section of the airport was listed as the area with the biggest problems.

The report noted the aviation department "may not have enough skilled workers or contractors to perform specialized maintenance work." It continued, saying some staff might be assigned to repair equipment outside their expertise or regular duties.

The reasons listed in the report regarding the staffing issues included how long it takes to hire people, as well as pay not being competitive.

Another risk listed in the report was how key workers were nearing or past retirement age.

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is grateful to the dedicated audit team for working with us on this assessment. Airports are complex environments, and, like all major airports, we continuously implement plans and protocols to mitigate risks, enhance resiliency, and strengthen our operations to meet the evolving needs of our community and travelers.

We look forward to future collaboration with the audit team to further mitigate risks and fortify our operations as we navigate the rapid growth and dynamic changes within the aviation industry.

AUS leadership

Related to safety, two worker deaths were reported in 2023, as well as several on-the-job injuries. The report highlighted muscle strains as the most common and recurrent workplace injury at the airport.