Air Traffic Control in the USA is struggling due to closure.

Aviation Safety Measures and Shutdown Impact

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced new measures to enhance aviation safety following the crash of a cargo plane shortly after takeoff in Kentucky. Duffy stated that the crash was not related to air traffic control and that the issues were mechanically related.

Impact of the Shutdown

Duffy emphasized that most air traffic controllers and employees of the Department of Transportation have not been paid due to the government shutdown. It was noted that the controllers, who received only a partial payment at the beginning of October, have not received their second payment. This situation has drawn attention as it has led employees to take on extra work.

Reduction in Flight Capacity

The Transportation Secretary noted that with the increasing shortage of personnel, delays and cancellations have occurred in flights. Duffy stated, “Ensuring safe travel is our top priority. Therefore, we will take additional measures for the risk profile in the national airspace.” Among these measures is a 10 percent reduction in flight capacity at 40 locations. It was announced that these restrictions would be implemented as of Friday morning.

Statement from the Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford announced that they deemed it appropriate to make a 10 percent reduction in capacity to alleviate the pressure on air traffic controllers.