FAA Reduces Flight Operations Amid Shutdown Concerns
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy addressed claims on Sunday that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was cutting back on flight operations for political reasons due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
As the shutdown drags on, with FAA workers unpaid and struggling, the Trump administration is implementing a gradual reduction in air traffic across the nation. This began with a 4% decrease on Friday, set to rise to 6% by Tuesday and 10% by November 14. In an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Duffy mentioned that the decision was driven by recent data showing an increase in near-miss incidents, ground incursions, and pilot complaints about overworked and unresponsive air traffic controllers.
“They looked at data pointing to a near miss between a helicopter and a crosswind plane. If they had considered that, it would have led to removing those helicopters from the river,” Duffy explained to host Jake Tapper. “The safety team reviewed the data and made the recommendation to us. We’re losing separation in the airspace.”
Duffy noted that concerns were raised from the FAA’s safety team after noticing a rise in safety issues.
“There are growing complaints from pilots about air traffic controllers not being responsive,” he said. “It seems like they’re under pressure, maybe even stressed. Looking at the safety data, the trends aren’t looking good.”
While Duffy dismissed suggestions that the economic slowdown was a tactic to pressure Democrats, he criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for politicizing the situation.
“I need to take action to ensure safety. Chuck Schumer isn’t taking this seriously. He’s the one using politics here by keeping the government shut down and not paying air traffic controllers,” Duffy stated. “He’s voted multiple times to keep the government closed and he’s urging others to do the same. So it’s clear who’s playing politics here.”
Duffy confirmed that the FAA’s decision was based on formal safety recommendations.
“Our safety team analyzed the data and suggested measures. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was necessary for safety. We did all we could to limit disruption,” he said. “The president feels similarly, stating, ‘I don’t want chaos for the American people.’
“Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth reached out to me saying there might be some air traffic controllers available to help,” Duffy added. “But I’m not sure if we can utilize them because they’re not certified for the airspace we require. However, if we can, we will. At President Trump’s direction, everyone here aims to minimize the suffering of the American public. This isn’t political — it’s all about safety.”
On Wednesday, Duffy announced significant cuts to air traffic as unpaid controllers increasingly seek second jobs to support themselves. He revealed plans for a 10% reduction in flights at 40 major U.S. airports, particularly as holiday travel approaches.
Congress remains deadlocked, with both Democrats and Republicans unable to reach an agreement regarding federal funding, largely over issues related to Obamacare and healthcare for undocumented immigrants. The ongoing shutdown, which recently reached its 40th day, marks the longest in U.S. history, leaving air traffic controllers without pay since October 1.
