Urgent Action Needed: Halt Indiscriminate Cuts Jeopardizing Aviation Safety

In the first weeks of 2025, our nation has witnessed a series of devastating aviation disasters, resulting in the tragic loss of 86 lives across five major incidents. Notably, the catastrophic mid-air collision over the Potomac River on January 29 claimed 67 lives, including young athletes and esteemed coaches. Just days later, on February 6, Bering Air Flight 445 vanished over the Norton Sound, taking 10 more lives. Most recently, on February 17, a Delta Air Lines jet flipped upon landing in Toronto, injuring 21 individuals. These tragedies are not isolated incidents but part of a disturbing trend that has emerged under the current administration. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reports at least 87 aviation accidents in the U.S. so far this year, a significant increase from previous years. Despite these alarming statistics, there have been indiscriminate cuts to critical aviation safety programs and personnel. These reductions have led to staffing shortages, outdated equipment, and a compromised air traffic control system, all of which have been cited as contributing factors in recent accidents. How dare we allow fiscal decisions to undermine the safety of our skies? It is both irresponsible and ludicrous to prioritize budget cuts over human lives. I implore you to take immediate action to: • Restore full funding to aviation safety programs. • Address staffing shortages in air traffic control and safety oversight. • Invest in modernizing our aviation infrastructure. The safety of the flying public must never be compromised. We cannot afford to wait for another tragedy to prompt action.