Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg recently spoke about a call he had with SpaceX founder Elon Musk to address concerns Musk had raised about the government potentially hindering his company’s efforts to help Hurricane Helene victims. Musk had accused the Federal Aviation Agency of blocking flights into storm-affected areas in North Carolina. However, Buttigieg clarified that the FAA was not closing down any airspace, but there were some issues with pilots delivering Starlink equipment not having the right information. After their conversation, the problem was resolved with the help of local authorities. Musk later expressed his gratitude to Buttigieg for helping to smooth things over.
Musk’s SpaceX company had been sending satellite terminals to its Starlink network system to connect hurricane-affected areas to the internet for better coordination of recovery efforts. Ivanka Trump was also involved in delivering some of these terminals. Initially, Musk raised concerns on X about potential airspace shutdowns, but Buttigieg responded on the platform assuring that the FAA does not block legitimate rescue and recovery flights. The Secretary clarified that temporary flight restrictions were being used in the disaster zone, not shutting down airspace, to enhance coordination and ensure safety in the area.
Buttigieg also discussed a strike by the International Longshoremen’s Association that had taken place, which could have disrupted shipments and supply chains in areas still recovering from Hurricane Helene. The strike was concerning for the transportation system, but by Friday, the union reached a preliminary agreement with the United States Maritime Alliance, representing top shipping lines. Buttigieg praised the dock workers for their hard work, especially during challenging conditions like the Covid-19 pandemic. He mentioned that they would continue negotiations on other issues, such as technology and automation.
Following Musk’s complaints, he and Buttigieg had a conversation to address the issues faced by SpaceX in delivering Starlink equipment to hurricane-affected areas. Buttigieg clarified the role of the FAA in temporary flight restrictions in disaster zones to facilitate rescue operations without shutting down airspace. After their discussion, the problem with pilots not having the right information was resolved, and Musk expressed his appreciation for Buttigieg’s assistance in expediting approval for support flights. The collaboration between the government and SpaceX helped to ensure the smooth delivery of necessary equipment for recovery efforts.
In addition to addressing concerns related to SpaceX’s efforts in hurricane recovery, Buttigieg also highlighted the importance of resolving labor disputes such as the strike by the International Longshoremen’s Association. The strike could have had significant implications for shipments and supply chains in areas affected by Hurricane Helene. By reaching a preliminary agreement, the union and the United States Maritime Alliance were able to prevent disruptions and work towards solutions for issues like technology and automation. Buttigieg emphasized the dedication of dock workers who continue to work in challenging conditions to ensure the smooth operation of maritime activities.
