‘Unacceptable’: Sean Duffy Calls for Overhaul of U.S. Aviation Safety Policies

In a recent segment of The Ingraham Angle, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy addressed growing concerns about aviation safety following a deadly plane crash in Washington, D.C. The incident, which involved an American Airlines flight and an Army Blackhawk helicopter, has raised alarming questions about air traffic control procedures and staffing shortages across the country.

Conflicting Data and Unanswered Questions

The crash investigation has revealed conflicting altitude data: the plane’s data recorder indicated it was flying at 325 feet, while control tower data placed the Blackhawk at 200 feet. “That discrepancy confuses everyone,” Duffy admitted. However, he urged patience as investigators analyze more data, including recordings from the helicopter’s black box.

Systemic Failures in Air Traffic Control

Duffy highlighted a troubling issue with current protocols in the D.C. airspace. Military aircraft receive instructions to maintain visual sight and distance from commercial planes—a policy that failed catastrophically in this case. “This policy and procedure apply inside D.C. airspace every single day,” he said. “A couple of nights ago, that approach didn’t work.”

Adding to the concern, The New York Times recently reported that over 90% of air traffic control facilities experience understaffing, with some operating at just 75% capacity. Duffy acknowledged the severity of this issue: “The staffing remains too short. Many air traffic controllers left when schools shut down during COVID. Furthermore, the Biden administration did not allow new academy graduates to train inside towers.”

A Plan for Change

Despite these challenges, Duffy reassured the public that air travel remains the safest mode of transportation. “If the airspace lacked safety, the FAA would shut it down,” he stated. Nevertheless, he stressed the need for immediate action to prevent future tragedies.

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“We can’t tolerate these crashes. These incidents are unacceptable,” Duffy declared, emphasizing the Trump administration’s commitment to safety. “Donald Trump has said, ‘I want the best and the brightest in our towers, keeping Americans safe.’”

Duffy outlined plans to surge air traffic controller staffing, accelerate training, and upgrade the nation’s outdated air traffic control systems. Moreover, he called for bipartisan support in Congress to secure the necessary funding, stating, “This effort should have been initiated decades ago.”

Safety Over Politics

Duffy concluded with a powerful message: “We prioritize safety over social justice or environmental concerns. That remains our mission.” As the investigation continues, the Department of Transportation plans to release a comprehensive strategy to address these critical issues. Ultimately, the goal is to restore public confidence and ensure the skies remain safe for all Americans