At a recent U.S. House hearing, Representative Sharice Davids stressed the need to invest in air traffic control staffing and safety systems after a recent air collision involving flights from Wichita, Kansas.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) currently has fewer than 11,000 certified air traffic controllers—far below recommended levels. Many must work overtime, increasing stress and safety risks. Hiring and training delays worsen the shortage, making it harder to maintain high safety standards. Davids warned that outdated technology and workforce shortages could put passengers in danger.

“Overall the United States does still enjoy exceedingly safe national airspace and does so without a second thought. Safety isn’t free though, from fully implementing next gen and upgrading our air traffic control systems to training and retaining folks like aviation safety specialists and air traffic controllers we have to continue to invest the time and resources to ensure that we’re protecting the flying public,” said Rep. Davids.

She opposed the President’s FAA layoffs and urged Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to enforce aviation safety reforms, including hiring more controllers and updating technology. She also criticized Elon Musk’s push to cancel a $2.4 billion FAA-Verizon contract. Following an air collision, lawmakers pledged support and await investigation findings for action.