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Air Traffic Controllers React to Duffy’s Salary Remarks

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy faced backlash after making comments on social media about air traffic controllers’ salaries. In a post on X, Duffy claimed that new controllers start their jobs earning $180,000 a year and that their pay could reach up to $400,000.

However, current and former air traffic controllers said these figures were far from accurate. Official data shows that newly graduated controllers earn between $45,000 and $50,000 during their academy training period and between $70,000 and $90,000 once assigned to their posts. Only highly experienced controllers working in busy airspaces can earn up to $180,000 with additional compensation.

Duffy’s remarks sparked anger among controllers, many of whom have not been paid due to the ongoing government shutdown. Several employees criticized the timing of his comments, saying, “It’s demoralizing to be portrayed as earning $180,000 while we’re working for zero pay.”

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