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MARGARET BRENNAN: Good morning, Mr. Secretary. As the Transportation Secretary, you recently experienced a major disruption in flights due to severe weather. Can you provide some insight into why it seemed so chaotic?
SECRETARY BUTTIGIEG: Overall, we have made significant improvements in the transportation system. However, the severe weather we encountered at the beginning of the week created enormous pressure. On a positive note, we saw record numbers of airline passengers on Friday, with cancellation rates remaining low. Although the cancellation rates spiked earlier in the week due to severe weather at key hubs, we have seen the benefits of the work we have done to enhance passenger rights. We continue to strive for a smoother experience for air passengers by addressing factors under the control of airlines and the FAA.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Private industry has pointed fingers at the FAA for the disruptions. How are you addressing the issue of inadequate air traffic control staffing at key hubs?
SECRETARY BUTTIGIEG: Air traffic control staffing issues account for less than 10% of delay minutes in the system, according to industry data. Nevertheless, we are committed to reducing this number as much as possible. Our plan includes hiring 1500 new air traffic controllers this year, with an additional 1800 planned for next year. We are also working on better staffing models and collaborating with airlines to optimize the use of the national airspace. By leveraging new technologies, such as GPS for more direct routes, we can reduce flight time and congestion. We are also engaging with the space industry to coordinate commercial space launches, which can affect airspace availability. In severe weather situations, we work closely with airline operational managers to prioritize safety while maximizing opportunities for efficient operations. These efforts align with the ongoing discussions surrounding the FAA reauthorization bill.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Speaking of the future, we are still awaiting the appointment of a new permanent head of the FAA. On another note, there is concern that some infrastructure projects may be based on inaccurate data regarding severe rain risks. Are these projects being implemented with flawed information?
SECRETARY BUTTIGIEG: Our focus is on building resilient infrastructure for the future. We acknowledge the increasing severity and frequency of severe weather impacts. For instance, in Eastern Kentucky, where recent floods devastated the community, we are not only improving the highway but also enhancing dam infrastructure to protect against future flooding. Whether it’s small-scale projects for rural communities or high-profile projects like the restoration of the Hudson River tunnels damaged by Superstorm Sandy, we prioritize resilience. These efforts are supported by billions of dollars dedicated to resilience projects in the infrastructure bill. We are confident in our commitment to building for a future that is prepared for climate challenges.
MARGARET BRENNAN: On a different topic, you recently expressed disagreement with a Supreme Court ruling regarding a Colorado website designer. What is your response to arguments claiming that labeling free speech as discrimination is a form of censorship?
SECRETARY BUTTIGIEG: The web designer in question was not approached by a same-sex couple seeking their services for a wedding. It is important to distinguish cases that seek to erode rights from genuine instances of discrimination. Looking at recent Supreme Court decisions, including the limitation of women’s reproductive rights and the diminishing of equality for same-sex couples, raises concerns about the erosion of freedoms and rights. We must reflect on whether we have witnessed the peak of inclusivity and equality in our country, as each generation has historically experienced greater rights and freedoms than the previous one. These decisions prompt deeper questions about the trajectory of our society’s values.
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