Secretary Duffy on NDAA, Airspace Safety, and DCA Airport Collision Safeguards

Airspace Safety and the NDAA

• ✈️ Secretary Duffy expresses his commitment to driving safety in the DCA airspace, regardless of legislative outcomes.
• ⚠️ He states that fixed-wing and rotorcraft traffic will not cross in this airspace, emphasizing FAA and DOT control.
• 💡 The safeguards were implemented after the DCA air crash, a risk that Duffy believes should have been identified earlier, citing 85 near misses prior to the event.

Legislative Process and Safety Commitment

• 🏛️ While respecting Congress's role, Duffy will not directly engage in the legislative process but is committed to using every tool to ensure public safety.
• 🗣️ He acknowledges that the White House, Senator Cruz, and Chair HD are engaged in discussions regarding the NDAA provisions.
• 🚫 The core principle is that the risk identified after the DCA crash will not be reintroduced into the airspace.

Personal Stance on Airspace Control

• 🧑‍✈️ As a former member of Congress, Duffy understands the legislative process but prioritizes his role in ensuring American flying public safety.
• 🔒 He asserts that the FAA and DOT control civilian airspace and will maintain safety measures.
• ❓ When asked if the current NDAA provision would increase risk, Duffy declined to comment directly but reiterated his commitment to using all available means to keep Americans safe.