An air traffic control tower at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. [Shutterstock]
Key Takeaways:
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy reported an increase in air traffic controller sick calls, attributing it to the financial strain on controllers working without pay during the government shutdown.
Duffy emphasized that the National Airspace System remains safe, as the FAA prioritizes safety by reducing air traffic flow in response to staffing issues, which may cause flight delays.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association president added that the ongoing shutdown could also negatively impact the training pipeline for new controllers.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said Monday that the FAA has seen an increase in air traffic controller sick calls as the government shutdown continues.
Speaking during a press conference in Newark, New Jersey, Duffy said the agency is tracking absenteeism at several facilities but stressed that the National Airspace System remains safe.
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Ryan is Sr. Director of Digital for Firecrown's Aviation Group. In 2013, he founded AirlineGeeks.com, a leading trade publication covering the airline industry. Since then, his work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the airline industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Previously, he worked for a Part 135 operator and later a major airline. Ryan is also an Adjunct Instructor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
