US Losing Air Traffic Controllers?
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy sounded the alarm Sunday, warning that the nation’s air traffic system is “on the edge of collapse,” with between 15 and 20 controllers walking off the job every day as the Biden shutdown drags on.
“Before the shutdown, we saw about four retirements a day. Now it’s up to twenty,” Duffy said during CNN’s State of the Union. “It’s going to be harder to bring these people back and safely manage America’s airspace.”
⚠️ Staffing Collapse Across the Nation
Duffy confirmed that 81 air traffic control facilities across the U.S. reported critical staffing shortages this weekend — a sharp jump from just weeks ago. Many controllers are now missing their second paycheck, forcing some to take side jobs or walk away entirely.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) responded Friday by ordering commercial airlines to reduce flights by 4% — a drastic but necessary move to maintain air safety. Duffy described the step as a “proactive safety measure,” but warned that the damage could last long after the government reopens.
✈️ Travelers Left Stranded, Families Frustrated
The chaos is already being felt by millions of travelers, with flight delays, cancellations, and mounting safety concerns. Meanwhile, the Biden administration has refused to compromise with congressional Republicans to reopen the government — leaving ordinary Americans to bear the cost.
“Every day this continues, more experienced controllers walk away. This is not sustainable,” Duffy cautioned.
⚡ A Shutdown with Lasting Consequences
Experts warn that the shutdown’s ripple effects could cripple air travel for months. Even if Washington strikes a deal soon, the loss of skilled personnel will take years to rebuild — further proof, critics say, that Biden’s failed leadership is putting national safety at risk.
For hardworking families and retirees who rely on dependable air travel, this shutdown represents more than gridlock — it’s a failure of responsibility at the highest levels of government.
