DOT Secretary Duffy Threatens Air Traffic Controllers

Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has spoken out regarding the increase in air traffic controllers calling in sick amid the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. In an interview on Fox Business’s “Varney & Co.,” Duffy addressed the situation, noting that while most controllers continue to report for duty, a small percentage are “lashing out” by not showing up for work.

Threats of Termination for Non-Dedicated Controllers

Duffy acknowledged the challenges faced by essential workers, including air traffic controllers and TSA agents, who are working without pay during the shutdown. He confirmed a rise in controllers calling out, describing the situation as “challenging.” However, he also issued a stern warning to those he termed “problem children” who are not demonstrating the necessary dedication.

“If we have a continual small subset of controllers that don’t show up to work and they’re the problem children — we need more controllers, but we need the best and the brightest, the dedicated controllers,” Duffy stated. “And if we have some on our staff that aren’t dedicated like we need, we’re going to let them go. I can’t have people not showing up for work.”

Impact on Air Travel and Holiday Weekends

Duffy’s comments came just days before the Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day federal holiday weekend. While most federal workers receive paid time off, air traffic controllers, deemed essential, are excluded. The government shutdown, which began on October 1, has already strained airports and air traffic control facilities nationwide, leading to flight delays and cancellations at major hubs like Newark Liberty International Airport, Hollywood Burbank Airport, and Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

Despite the disruptions, Duffy maintained that U.S. air travel remains safe. He emphasized the FAA’s primary mission: “We will slow down traffic, we will stop traffic, if we can’t control the airspace safely. Because that’s the number one mission.”