Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy indicated Monday that budget airlines seeking $2.5 billion in federal assistance to combat soaring jet fuel expenses would require Congressional authorization for any potential aid package.
Speaking to reporters during a Baltimore event on Monday, Duffy emphasized the significant financial scope of the airlines’ funding request and the legislative hurdles involved.
“I don’t have that money – can’t just pull it out of the couch cushions. There would have to be a lot of government engagement and a bipartisan effort to find the funds for them,” Duffy explained to media members. He added that “Congress would have to get involved as well with that kind of number.”
The Transportation Secretary stressed that any such requests would require thorough examination before moving forward with the substantial funding proposal from the nation’s low-cost carriers.
