Squawk Pod Transportation Sec. Sean Duffy on the Shutdown’s Impact on Air Travel 10/7/25
Oct 7, 2025
Sean Duffy, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, discusses the significant impact of the government shutdown on air travel, highlighting controller stress and staffing shortages. He emphasizes the need for urgent funding and modernization of air traffic control systems. Tim Walsh, KPMG's Chair and CEO, shares insights from a survey of 400 CEOs, revealing growing confidence in AI investments and supply chains despite current uncertainties. He notes a shift in workforce dynamics due to AI and ongoing recruitment efforts for new graduates.
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Airspace Runs On Antiquated Software
- The FAA's airspace software is outdated and hinders safe, modern operations.
- Secretary Sean Duffy says we run "Windows 95 or Windows XP" level systems and need a new software overhaul.
Controllers Stressed By Pay Uncertainty
- Controllers are stressed and working extra shifts amid pay uncertainty during the shutdown.
- Duffy warns this strain risks using aviation workers as political leverage and urges reopening the government.
Reopen First, Negotiate Later
- Open the government to stop using essential workers as leverage and restore stability.
- Duffy urges Congress to reopen now and negotiate policy afterward to protect aviation staff.