President Trump criticized his predecessor's management of the FAA, suggesting without evidence that diversity initiatives were to blame for a recent plane crash. He claimed the FAA hires unqualified individuals with disabilities for air traffic controller positions, despite the agency's rigorous standards and policies.
This policy of including people with disabilities has been in place since before Trump's first term and has no evidence of compromising safety. Air traffic controllers undergo extensive training and meet strict standards regardless of disability.
Trump's claims about changing the policy and its impact on safety are inaccurate. He signed a memorandum to end diversity initiatives, but records show similar programs existed during his first term.
Former Transportation Secretary Buttigieg and the head of the air traffic controllers' union criticized Trump's remarks, emphasizing safety and the professionalism of controllers. The FAA declined to comment.
5 Comments
Coccinella
Air traffic controllers are highly trained professionals—qualifications are always prioritized!
ArtemK
Trump's claims are unfounded. FAA's diversity initiatives have not compromised safety at all!
Cerebro
The opponents of diversity initiatives need to address facts over rhetoric—safety is a shared priority!
ZmeeLove
We need more emphasis on qualifications rather than satisfying diversity quotas. It's common sense!
Habibi
I support Trump's stance. We shouldn't risk air safety over diversity initiatives.