Transportation Secretary Warns of Flight Delays Amid Air Traffic Controller Financial Strain

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has expressed concern over air traffic controllers taking on additional jobs to manage financial difficulties during the ongoing government shutdown. Speaking at a House GOP press conference, Duffy noted that controllers, who are required to work without pay during the funding lapse, are seeking secondary employment to meet financial obligations. He emphasized the importance of controllers focusing solely on their primary duties to ensure airspace safety.

Duffy also indicated that he cannot guarantee on-time departures or prevent cancellations as the shutdown continues. House Speaker Mike Johnson reported that from Saturday to Monday, 19,000 flights were delayed and 1,600 were canceled, citing data from FlightAware. Duffy explained that staffing shortages among air traffic controllers could lead to deliberate reductions in flight traffic to maintain passenger safety. He stated that if safe operations cannot be ensured, passengers will experience delays and cancellations.