NATCA in the News: NATCA President Nick Daniels Appears on CNN’s The Lead with Jake Tapper

Oct 8, 2025

NATCA President Nick Daniels appeared on CNN's The Lead with Jake Tapper on Oct. 7, highlighting the work air traffic controllers continue to do during this on-going government shutdown. Daniels stressed that there have been more than 1,000 instances this year alone in which the Federal Aviation Administration has declared "zero ATC at a facility," meaning the control tower is either closed due to staffing or unreliable equipment.

Daniels highlighted that the flying public remains safe during those times because of the excellent work and dedication of air traffic controllers at other facilities that step up to maintain the integrity of the National Airspace System. Daniels finished the interview by reiterating that controllers will do everything they can to show up to work each day and ensure the safety of the American public.