NATCA CALLS ON CONGRESS TO END THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

NATCA CALLS ON CONGRESS TO END THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

Today, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) expressed its disappointment that Congress was unable to reach an agreement to fund the government and NATCA called on legislators to end the government shutdown as soon as possible.

Government shutdowns reduce the safety and efficiency of the National Airspace System (NAS) and erode the layers of safety that allow the flying public to arrive safely and on-time to their destinations. During a shutdown, critical safety support staff are furloughed, and support programs are suspended, making it difficult for air traffic controllers and other aviation safety professionals to perform at optimum levels.

NATCA supports Secretary Duffy's comprehensive plan to "supercharge" controller hiring to alleviate the 3,800 shortfall of fully certified controllers and ensure that the system is staffed with the best and brightest air traffic controllers. NATCA also supports Secretary Duffy's vision for modernizing the air traffic control system. However, both of these critical initiatives could experience delays during a government shutdown

"Congress must act now to end this shutdown," said NATCA President Nick Daniels. "When the federal government shuts down it introduces unnecessary distractions and our entire aviation system is weakened. Congress must restore federal funding so that the safety and efficiency of our National Airspace System is not compromised."

As a result of the shutdown, more than 2,350 NATCA-represented aviation safety professionals are furloughed. This includes aircraft certification engineers and aerospace engineers. Critical safety and technology work, as well as operational support, will not be performed while these workers are furloughed.

Air traffic controllers and other aviation safety professionals employed by the FAA whose work is necessary for the safety of life or the protection of property are classified as "excepted" employees and are required to continue working without pay during a shutdown. This includes controllers who are already working mandatory overtime that requires them to work six days a week, 10 hours a day.

"The increased stress and fatigue that comes from working long hours without pay cannot be overstated," Daniels said. "Despite the shutdown, there is one thing that will not change - air traffic controllers are incredibly proud of the public service they provide, and they will answer the bell without fail. They will continue to perform the vital work they do throughout the shutdown to safeguard our National Airspace System. They will guide you home."