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United Airlines CEO: Addressing the air traffic controller shortage 'is the most impactful action' the government can take to improve air travel

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United Airlines CEO: Addressing the air traffic controller shortage 'is the most impactful action' the government can take to improve air travel
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United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby | https://ir.united.com/board-member/scott-kirby

Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, emphasized the importance of addressing the air traffic controller shortage to improve overall air travel. He expressed gratitude to President Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy for their leadership in tackling this issue. Kirby's remarks were made in a press release dated February 28.

"Addressing the critical shortage of air traffic controllers is the most impactful action the government can take to improve safety, reliability and efficiency for air travelers," said Kirby. "We thank President Trump and Secretary Duffy for their leadership and these decisive steps toward increasing ATC staffing to ensure our air traffic control system's standard of excellence."

According to Transportation Secretary Duffy, plans have been announced to streamline the hiring process and increase salaries for certified air traffic controllers as a response to the ongoing shortage. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of the National Airspace System (NAS). In a press release, Airlines for America and its member carriers commended the Trump Administration's swift action on this matter. Duffy's announcement is seen as a crucial step toward strengthening the aviation industry.

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Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio testified before the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Aviation Subcommittee, urging immediate action on issues related to air traffic control staffing, infrastructure, and funding. Calio stressed the necessity of an emergency funding package to address staffing shortages, modernize outdated technology, and improve NAS efficiency. He warned that without prompt investments, there could be an increase in flight delays, cancellations, and safety risks. Calio called on lawmakers to prioritize improvements in the aviation system to meet growing passenger demand.

On February 27, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy issued a press release detailing a plan to expedite the hiring of air traffic controllers at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. The initiative seeks to address staffing shortages by expanding recruitment efforts and streamlining hiring processes. Duffy highlighted that increasing the controller workforce is essential for enhancing air travel safety and efficiency.

According to a March 21 report by Reuters, Secretary Duffy has unveiled a comprehensive proposal aimed at overhauling the U.S. air traffic control system. The plan requests "tens of billions of dollars" from Congress for modernizing Federal Aviation Administration infrastructure with new radar systems, air traffic control terminals, and runway safety technology.

Scott Kirby serves as CEO of United Airlines Holdings, Inc., having previously held the position of president from 2016 to 2020 where he managed operations, marketing, sales, and network planning.

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