Donald Trump‘s administration has laid off nearly 400 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees, a decision that has raised concerns in the airline industry. The move comes at a critical time, with several recent accidents and a shortage of approximately 3,500 air traffic controllers.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed the cuts and explained that they affect mechanics, aeronautical information specialists and aviation safety assistants, roles essential to the operation of the system. The Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS) union criticised the decision, warning that these positions are key to ensuring the safety of flights in the country.
FAA: Debate on Safety and Modernisation of the Airline System
Senator Maria Cantwell, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, questioned the staff reductions, noting that the FAA already faces a shortage of 800 technicians responsible for maintaining air traffic control and communication systems. ‘Eliminating more positions at this time only increases the risk in the airspace,’ he said.
For its part, the Department of Transportation said it continues to hire and train staff to strengthen aviation safety. Duffy defended the layoffs and justified them as part of a modernisation plan. ‘The air traffic control system continues to operate with obsolete technology,’ he said in X.
Despite the government’s plans, staffing shortages remain an urgent problem, keeping the debate open about priorities in US aviation security management.
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