Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy joined ‘Sunday Morning Futures’ to address the growing concerns about air traffic controllers and their well-being amid the ongoing government shutdown. The interview, which took place on [date], provided insight into the challenges faced by federal workers in the aviation industry, particularly those in critical roles such as air traffic control. Duffy indicated that the prolonged shutdown has led to increased stress and burnout among controllers, raising concerns about the potential risks to aviation safety.
Duffy emphasized that the shutdown is not only affecting the morale of federal employees but also the overall efficiency of the aviation system. He noted that while the government remains operational in certain areas, the lack of funding and resources has created a significant strain on personnel. This situation, he warned, could lead to potential delays in air traffic management and heightened safety risks, particularly during peak travel periods.
The Department of Transportation is working closely with aviation authorities to mitigate the impact of the shutdown, but Duffy acknowledged that the situation is deteriorating. He called for a resolution to the shutdown to ensure the safety and reliability of the national airspace system. As the situation unfolds, federal workers in the aviation sector continue to face uncertainty, with their professional responsibilities and personal well-being being increasingly tested.