U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently addressed concerns about the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) systems, highlighting the need for modernization and improved recruitment strategies for air traffic controllers. While emphasizing the continued safety of American airspace, Secretary Duffy acknowledged the importance of technological advancements and workforce development within the FAA.
Speaking on "Fox News Sunday," Duffy underscored that air travel remains the safest mode of transportation, citing existing safety protocols and technologies. However, he stressed the need for system upgrades, particularly referencing a recent outage of the FAA's pilot warning system, NOTAM, which he described as "outdated."
The FAA's mandatory retirement age of 55 for air traffic controllers contributes to high turnover rates, a challenge compounded by training bottlenecks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Duffy emphasized his commitment to training a new generation of controllers, prioritizing skills and aptitude over diversity quotas. He stated his focus on recruiting "the best and the brightest" to ensure the highest level of safety for the traveling public.
Duffy's comments follow recent aviation incidents, including the collision of a military Blackhawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet in Washington, D.C., and a private plane crash in Pennsylvania. Investigations into both incidents are underway, with Duffy expressing particular interest in the communications between the control tower at Reagan National Airport and the aircraft involved in the D.C. collision. He highlighted key questions regarding tower staffing, procedures followed, and the language used by the air traffic controller.
