FAA Response to Continued Government Shutdown

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy indicated on Friday that it could take “days, if not a week” for air travel to stabilize after the government shutdown is resolved.

Duffy mentioned that even if the government reopened tomorrow—which he noted seems unlikely—it would still require time to bring air traffic controllers back to operations. “You have to evaluate the controllers returning to facilities and towers,” he said during an interview.

As airlines work to resume normal bookings, it’s essential to understand that the required workforce needs to be back in place. Duffy explained that bringing back a certain percentage of controllers is just part of the equation. The airlines also have to adapt and schedule flights accordingly.

He further stated that the delays could last several days, possibly up to a week, before a sense of normalcy returns to the airline industry. “If we see more controllers in the tower, the airlines, you know, they have to react to that,” Duffy elaborated. He emphasized that full operational capacity would take time post-closure.

Complicating matters, if the government shutdown persists, there could be more widespread layoffs due to an escalating shortage of air traffic controllers. Duffy mentioned that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has already begun reducing the number of flights by 10%, and that could increase to as much as 20% in the near future.

“You might argue that starting with a 10% cut could lead to further reductions,” he said, noting the figure is somewhat theoretical but still within the realm of possibility.

Duffy also pointed out the importance of monitoring data and controller availability to make informed decisions that ensure airspace safety. “I hope it turns out better than expected,” he remarked.

The context for these remarks is significant, as the government shutdown reaches its 38th day, leaving many anxious about the procedures and travel impacts moving forward.