CBS’ Gayle King embarrassed while trying to pin blame for plane crashes on FAA staff reductions

In a February 19, 2025, interview on “CBS Mornings,” Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian faced questions from host Gayle King about recent plane crashes and the Trump administration’s layoffs at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The discussion followed a series of high-profile aviation incidents, including a Delta flight that flipped upside down during a landing in Toronto on February 17, prompting concerns about air travel safety.

King pressed Bastian on whether the administration’s decision to cut approximately 300 FAA employees—part of a broader cost-cutting initiative—had compromised safety, especially amid public unease over recent crashes. Bastian firmly dismissed the notion, stating, “The cuts do not affect us, Gayle.” He emphasized that he had been in close contact with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and clarified that the FAA employs over 50,000 people, with the layoffs targeting “non-critical safety functions.” Bastian argued that these reductions did not impact operational safety.

Addressing the Toronto crash, Bastian praised the flight crew’s response, noting that the pilots, operating a regional jet for Delta subsidiary Endeavor Air, were experienced and well-trained for adverse conditions. “This is what we train for,” he said, underscoring that Delta maintains a uniform safety standard across its operations. He also highlighted the Trump administration’s commitment to enhancing air traffic control technology and hiring additional controllers and safety investigators, expressing confidence in ongoing modernization efforts.

Despite King’s attempt to link the FAA layoffs to the crashes, Bastian maintained that air travel remains “the safest form of transportation, period,” countering the narrative with data and reassurance. His responses underscored a disconnect between media speculation and the airline’s perspective, leaving King visibly surprised by his unwavering stance.