Duffy Presses on ATC Delay, Closure Warnings | Aviation International News

Duffy Presses on ATC Delay, Closure Warnings

Warns of partial rolling airspace closures and suggest total shutdown if safety comes into question

ATC tower twilight — © Fotolia

By Kerry Lynch • Editor, AIN monthly magazine

November 5, 2025

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has ratcheted up his warnings about the ramifications of the ongoing government shutdown, now the longest in history, telling media outlets that the delays are only going to worsen as air traffic controllers face a second missed paycheck. This may result in rolling airspace closures as staffing requires, he said, telling a CNBC reporter this week that if the department thought safety was in question, it would shut the whole airspace down. “We’re not there yet,” he added.

Duffy reiterated that he wants controllers to come to work and do their jobs, but also said they need to worry about feeding their families.

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