‘Mistaken’ Biden funding priorities helped fuel air traffic control crisis, lawmaker says
The current air traffic control crisis has been a point of contention for Rep. Nick Langworthy, the chairman of the House’s Aviation Safety Caucus. Langworthy has accused the former Biden administration of exacerbating the situation by prioritizing progressive diversity initiatives over modernizing the aging ATC system.
In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Langworthy criticized the former administration’s decision to allocate funds for DEI policies instead of investing in critical infrastructure projects like the ATC system. He pointed to missed opportunities, such as the bipartisan infrastructure bill, which could have been used to revamp the outdated system.
According to Langworthy, the consequences of neglecting ATC modernization have been significant. Incidents like the recent blackout at Newark Liberty International Airport and the tragic collision between a military helicopter and a passenger plane near Washington, D.C., highlight the urgent need for updates to the system.
While Langworthy clarified that DEI policies may not directly impact ATC operations, he emphasized that the focus should have been on essential infrastructure projects like aviation. He stressed the importance of investing in modernization efforts to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel.
Although the bipartisan infrastructure bill allocated $25 billion to the Federal Aviation Administration for modernization, lawmakers believe that more funding is necessary. Langworthy and other Republicans are pushing for additional funding through President Donald Trump’s proposed budget reconciliation process, specifically earmarking $12 billion for ATC modernization.
During discussions with air traffic controllers in his district, Langworthy learned that the primary need is for more personnel. He highlighted the importance of attracting young people to careers in government service, particularly in roles like air traffic control, which offer competitive salaries but require long hours and high levels of stress.
Looking ahead, Langworthy pledged to work with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to secure the funding needed for ATC modernization. He emphasized the critical role that modernizing the ATC system plays in ensuring the safety of the flying public and vowed to prioritize the issue in Congress.
As the aviation industry grapples with the challenges posed by an outdated ATC system, lawmakers like Langworthy are advocating for swift action to address the crisis. By prioritizing funding for modernization efforts, they hope to improve the efficiency and safety of air travel for all passengers.
