NATCA in the News: President Nick Daniels Discusses Government Shutdown on CNN

Oct 1, 2025

NATCA President Nick Daniels appeared on CNN with Brianna Keilar on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, just hours after Congress failed to reach an appropriations agreement, sending the U.S. federal government into a shutdown. Daniels discussed how a shutdown is extremely stressful for air traffic controllers and other aviation safety professionals across the country, who already are dealing with critical staffing and unreliable equipment.

Daniels also talked about the approximately 2,350 NATCA members who will be furloughed during this shutdown. He explained how these furloughed professionals "ensure these air traffic controllers have the latest procedures, the latest briefings…Every day this continues, it is something else [controllers] need to overcome and doesn't put them in a position to be as successful as they can be."

"Adding this unnecessary distraction [of a shutdown] into the mix puts controllers in a very difficult position," stated Daniels. He continued saying that he has no doubt that controllers will be professional and continue doing their vital work even while not being paid. "I represent a proud group of individuals who do one of the most demanding jobs in the entire world. They will show up every day. They will continue doing the job."

Daniels called on lawmakers to end the shutdown immediately.