On Tuesday, Transport Secretary Sean Duffy discussed the “ripple effect” that government shutdowns are having on the shortage of air traffic controllers.
Duffy noted that, although the number of air traffic controllers has increased by 20%, the ongoing shutdown risks losing essential training support.
“But one of the issues is the shutdown affecting the academy training. New controllers need to train at the tower or in other facilities, and they rely on support staff for that,” he mentioned.
“There’s a ripple effect when trying to address the deficit of around 2,000 controllers. There’s really no staff available to ensure these young trainees get the instruction they require,” he added.
Recent delays were reported at facilities like Hollywood Burbank Airport, Denver International Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey due to federal shutdowns.
For nearly six hours, Hollywood Burbank Airport had no controller on duty, highlighting the problem.
Duffy raised concerns that the working conditions for controllers might affect safety, as they deal with worries beyond just airspace. “They’re thinking, ‘Am I going to get a paycheck?'” he said during a press conference.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association emphasized to Hill that this situation underscores the vulnerability of the aviation system amid a national shortage of these critical safety professionals. They are collaborating with the FAA to expedite the onboarding of more air traffic controllers.
Duffy expressed his intention to advocate for the government to reopen so that controllers can be paid, urging key staff to keep showing up for work in the meantime.
“I don’t want our air travel to be used as leverage in this situation. I think it’s important for Congress members to work together and find a way forward,” the secretary said on Tuesday.
