Potential Job Losses for Air Traffic Controllers Avoiding Unpaid Work During Government Shutdown Duffy Warns
U.S. Transportation Secretary Addresses Air Traffic Controller Shortages Amid Government Shutdown
Impact of Air Traffic Controller Shortages on U.S. Airports
In the midst of the ongoing federal government shutdown, the U.S. is facing significant challenges due to a shortage of air traffic controllers. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has expressed concern over controllers calling in sick rather than working without pay, warning that such actions could result in termination.
Consequences of Sick Leaves During the Shutdown
During a recent appearance on Fox Business, Secretary Duffy highlighted the severe disturbances caused by sick leaves among controllers, stating, “It’s a small fraction of people who don’t come to work. They create a massive disruption, which we’re seeing ripple through the skies today.” He emphasized that more than 90% of controllers are maintaining their duties despite the shutdown.
Disrupted Airports and Geographic Impact
Airports across the country, particularly smaller ones in Burbank, California, and Nashville, Tennessee, have reported flight delays due to the shortage of air traffic controllers. Major hubs in Newark, Chicago, Denver, and Dallas-Fort Worth are also experiencing disruptions.
- Burbank, CA
- Nashville, TN
- Newark, NJ
- Chicago, IL
- Denver, CO
- Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
Federal Efforts to Address the Shortage
The Federal Aviation Administration is currently grappling with a critical shortage of air traffic controllers. Secretary Duffy has prioritized increasing staffing levels to resolve this issue over the next few years. He also reiterated that controllers failing to fulfill their duties could face termination, describing them as “problem children” if they continue to disrupt operations.
Union’s Stance on Continued Work
The National Association of Air Traffic Controllers (NATCA) has reiterated the necessity for its members to continue working during the shutdown. Mick Devine, the union’s executive vice president, emphasized in a statement that “coordinated activity that disrupts the national airspace system is illegal” and could harm controllers’ careers and the union’s advocacy efforts.
Financial Struggles Amid the Shutdown
Like other federal employees, controllers express concerns about financial hardships resulting from the shutdown. NATCA President Nick Daniels acknowledged the stress of these unpaid circumstances, adding that some might take on additional jobs to meet financial obligations. Secretary Duffy suggested that frustration is driving some controllers to skip work.
Flight disruptions caused by absent controllers could pressure Congress to resolve the shutdown, reminiscent of a similar scenario in 2019. However, bipartisan agreement appears distant, with no clear resolution in sight.
