Nicholas Calio, CEO of Airlines for America, announced he testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Aviation Subcommittee, calling for urgent action on air traffic control staffing, infrastructure, and emergency funding. He made this announcement in a post on the social media platform X on March 5.
Airlines for America (A4A) is a trade association representing major U.S. airlines. It advocates for policies that promote safety, security, and a healthy U.S. airline industry. Under the leadership of President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio, A4A collaborates with airlines, labor organizations, Congress, and the Administration to improve air travel for everyone.
According to a 2023 report by the Department of Transportation's Office of Inspector General, 20 out of 26 critical air traffic control facilities were staffed below the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) 85% threshold. This indicates significant staffing shortages.