The CEO of United Airlines recently took to LinkedIn to propose enhancements for air traffic control (ATC) in an effort to reduce delays for passengers. He emphasized the necessity for increased funding directed towards staffing, technology, and facilities. His remarks were made in light of recent tensions between Elon Musk and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
In a comprehensive 750-word post published on Monday, Scott Kirby articulated his belief that improving the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is “the most important change the government can make for the American traveling public.” He pointed out that air traffic control restrictions account for 68% of delays experienced by United Airlines, the world’s largest carrier.
Kirby claimed that investing in staffing, technology, and facilities could lead to a “dramatic” enhancement in air travel. He provided data indicating that over three-quarters of critical ATC facilities are currently understaffed. To address this issue, he urged the FAA to increase capacity at its training academy and expand training programs through private colleges and universities.
Air traffic control safety has garnered significant attention in recent months, particularly following several major incidents, including a tragic crash involving a US Army helicopter and an American Airlines plane in Washington, DC in January, which resulted in over 60 fatalities.
Kirby’s commentary emerged shortly after The New York Times reported a dispute between Elon Musk and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy concerning ATC staffing levels. The report highlighted Musk’s denial of Duffy’s assertion that he had been asked to terminate air traffic controllers.
In his post, Kirby commended Duffy’s initiative to “supercharge” the hiring of air traffic controllers by streamlining the recruitment process and increasing wages.
Kirby also asserted that existing ATC systems require modern upgrades. He referenced a 2024 report indicating that some systems are unmaintainable due to obsolete parts and the retirement of essential technicians. “Canada began utilizing electronic flight strips 25 years ago, while we’ve been attempting to replace our outdated paper strips in control towers since 1983,” he remarked.
Additionally, Kirby criticized the FAA for allocating over 90% of its facilities and equipment budget solely toward repairs, urging that a greater portion should instead be invested in upgrades and modernization. He expressed discontent with the current model of FAA funding being allocated on a year-to-year basis, advocating for the facilities and equipment budget to be categorized as mandatory spending to ensure long-term financial stability.
“To be clear, our ATC system is safe,” he concluded. “But now is the time to give the greatest country in the world what its citizens deserve — the best air traffic control system in the world.”
