Anderson Cooper 360 Thousands Of Flights Canceled And Delayed As Shutdown Drags On
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Nov 8, 2025 Chris Gallant, a former JFK air traffic controller and current Army National Guard pilot, reveals the intense stress faced by controllers amid the ongoing government shutdown, highlighting its impact on flight operations. Legal analyst Carrie Cordero dives into the Justice Department's subpoenas connected to past investigations, questioning their legal validity. Additionally, the discussion touches on potential future innovations in personal electric aircraft, sparking intrigue about the next era of aviation.
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Shutdown Driving Widespread Flight Disruption
- The government shutdown is directly disrupting air travel with mass cancellations and delays across major airports.
- Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned mandated flight cuts could rise from 10% to 20% if the shutdown continues.
Controllers Say Cuts Are Unnecessary
- Retired controller Dave Riley says mandated 10% cuts are unnecessary and politically harmful.
- He argues delays stem from fewer controllers and rescheduling, not inherently unsafe traffic levels.
Controllers’ Personal Strain On The Job
- Chris Gallant describes controllers working 10 hours a day, six days a week and worrying about rent and childcare.
- He says that off-duty financial stress distracts controllers from their work in high-tempo airspace like New York.