Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO) participated in a press conference with House Republican leaders and Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy to address the ongoing government shutdown’s effects on aviation. The event, held in Washington, D.C., included Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA), Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN), and House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-MI).
Chairman Graves acknowledged the commitment of air traffic controllers who continue working despite not receiving pay during the shutdown. “They’re showing up for work, they’re doing the job, and they’re making sure that our skies stay safe.” He also criticized Senator Chuck Schumer’s handling of the situation, stating, “It’s unfortunate that he’s weaponizing the air traffic controllers,” and emphasized that controllers and their families should not be used as political leverage.
Speaker Mike Johnson highlighted media reports indicating some air traffic controllers are seeking additional employment to support their families during this period without pay. “Air traffic controllers, some people call the policemen of our skies, they have been showing up at work without pay. And, news reports have suggested that these men and women are seeking outside employment just to keep their families afloat..”
Secretary Duffy reassured travelers about flight safety and noted that modernization efforts for air traffic control are continuing despite funding uncertainties. He pointed out that $12.5 billion was allocated in H.R. 1 by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for these improvements. However, he warned that the shutdown could deter new recruits from joining or remaining in training programs due to concerns over reliable compensation: “They’re thinking about leaving the [FAA] Academy, smart young men and women, because they don’t want to work for a system that won’t pay them.”
Chairman Graves joined other officials in calling on Senate Democrats to approve a continuing resolution—already passed by the House—to end the shutdown and restore government operations.
