Duffy Discourages Controllers’ Second Jobs Amid Shutdown | JQJO

At a House GOP press conference, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that air traffic controllers, unpaid during the shutdown, are taking second jobs to cover bills—something he discouraged given the high-stress demands of the role. He acknowledged their financial strain but said safety must come first, even if it slows the system. Duffy said he cannot guarantee on-time departures as the nation's second-longest shutdown continues. House Speaker Mike Johnson cited FlightAware data showing 19,000 delays and 1,600 cancellations from Saturday to Monday amid staffing shortages.