Transport Secretary Warns of Shutdown Impact on Air Traffic Control

Transport Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the negative impact of the ongoing government shutdown on the nation’s air traffic control system during a visit to Newark Liberty International Airport. He highlighted concerns from air traffic controllers who are more focused on their unpaid salaries than on their responsibilities.

“They’re not just thinking about airspace right now,” Duffy remarked, pointing out that controllers are preoccupied with financial uncertainty. “They’re wondering, ‘Will I get a paycheck?'”

Prior to addressing the media, Duffy visited with the air traffic controllers at the airport. He condemned the political deadlock, stating that the shutdown has only heightened the stress already faced by controllers who are working with outdated equipment.

According to the transportation department’s shutdown emergency response plan, when the shutdown began, over 11,000 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees—roughly a quarter of the workforce—were impacted. However, the plan indicated that more than 13,000 air traffic controllers continue to undergo recruitment and training. Still, Duffy expressed concern that support staff who train these controllers are also at risk of being let go.

The FAA has plans to recruit 8,900 new controllers by August 2028, taking into account anticipated retirements and other factors that could lead to a net increase of around 1,000 controllers. Duffy pointed out that many controllers are not financially secure, often living paycheck to paycheck. “They don’t have months of savings,” he said, stressing the urgency of their financial situation.

He reassured that, for the moment, America’s airspace remains safe. Yet, due to the shutdown, there’s been a noticeable uptick in controllers taking sick days, which could lead to delays. Duffy referenced a similar situation in January 2019, where a previous shutdown caused widespread disruptions due to an increase in sick leave among controllers.

One area already seeing effects is the Essential Air Service Program, which ensures air service for rural communities. Duffy noted that, as of Sunday, there has been no additional funding for this program from the transportation division.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association, representing nearly 20,000 workers in the field, has called for an end to the shutdown. Nick Daniels, the organization’s president, echoed Duffy’s sentiments, underscoring the urgency: “We don’t have the luxury of time,” he stated. “Our message is clear. We need to end the shutdown.”