Transport Secretary Sean Duffy argued that if pilots ignore the air traffic controller, they should lose their license. It is an impressive statement as his department handles a series of aviation accidents and near-term mistakes.
Duffy appeared on Thursday NBC Nightly Newsduring which host Tom Costello asked if there was anything related to the plane incident.
“They are all very unique,” he admitted, adding, “Each of these incidents has a pilot error.”
Duffy also sought responsible people to face the consequences of ignoring air traffic controllers. It comes when a private plane at Chicago's Midway International Airport runs into the runway.
“It's a space where you make an error or a serious error and don't pay what kind of price you don't pay for it, and as a result, something is wrong,” Duffy told the outlet. “And this could be a way to start paying attention to the pilots again and following the direction of the air traffic controller.”
Duffy faces scrutiny over recent incidents, particularly as government efficiency (DOGE) is trying to cut federal budgets and cut the Federal Aviation Administration.
On Thursday he announced that he plans to “charge” air traffic controller staff due to the continued shortage. He will increase his salary and reduce the time the employment process takes to accelerate the speed of employment.
Doge leader Elon Musk encouraged retired air traffic controllers to return to work and support the sector.
