# Faa on The No Agenda Show

Faa comes up in 177 chapters across 162 episodes of The No Agenda Show, from February 2008 to October 2026.

- **Chapters:** 177
- **Episodes:** 162
- **Discussed:** February 2008 – October 2026
- **Related topics:** [Drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [Air Traffic Control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-control.md), [Boeing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing.md), [Aviation Safety](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aviation-safety.md), [Notam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/notam.md), [Ntsb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ntsb.md), [United Airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-airlines.md), [737 Max](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/737-max.md), [Air Traffic Controllers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-controllers.md), [Airbus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airbus.md)

## Chapters 1–20 of 177

### The Reality of Flying Cars and the ALEF Model

- **Episode:** [1913: Meat Muck](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1913-meat-muck.md)
- **Published:** 2026-10-18
- **Time:** 1:34:22–1:39:18
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1913-meat-muck/chapter/the-reality-of-flying-cars-and-the-alef-model.md

Adam Curry, a licensed pilot, evaluates the current state of flying car technology, including the Dutch PAL-V gyrocopter and the ALEF vertical takeoff vehicle. While the ALEF has received limited FAA certification for testing, Curry remains skeptical about the mass adoption of "hopping" cars for public use. He notes that most current models are either too expensive or require traditional runways, making them impractical for the average commuter.

Keywords: alef, [gyrocopter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gyrocopter.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [flying cars](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flying-cars.md), vertical takeoff, [james bond](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-bond.md)

### Air Traffic Control, Post-COVID Safety Concerns

- **Episode:** [1883: Orgy of Socialism](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1883-orgy-of-socialism.md)
- **Published:** 2026-07-05
- **Time:** 2:03:42–2:07:19
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1883-orgy-of-socialism/chapter/air-traffic-control-post-covid-safety-concerns.md

An anonymous air traffic controller provides a "boots on the ground" report regarding a recent near-miss incident between two aircraft. The report blames a combination of post-COVID staffing issues, inexperienced pilots, and the implementation of text-based communication systems (CPDLC) that reduce active listening. The controller warns that reliance on automated systems is degrading the attention spans and response times of both pilots and controllers.

Keywords: [air traffic control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-control.md), [atc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/atc.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), cpdlc, near miss, [aviation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aviation.md)

### Airline Near Misses, FAA Safety and Runway Incursions

- **Episode:** [1881: Cow Cartel](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1881-cow-cartel.md)
- **Published:** 2026-06-28
- **Time:** 1:56:24–2:00:19
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1881-cow-cartel/chapter/airline-near-misses-faa-safety-and-runway-incursions.md

A series of "near misses" at airports in Boston, Nashville, and JFK has prompted calls from the NTSB and pilots' unions for mandatory GPS-based air traffic receivers on all planes. While the FAA claims runway incursion rates have decreased, the organization representing the nation's airlines reveals there are hundreds of unreported close calls daily. The hosts suggest the push for new equipment is driven by military contractors seeking to sell "next-gen" aviation systems.

Keywords: [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [delta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/delta.md), [american airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/american-airlines.md), [ntsb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ntsb.md), [air traffic control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-control.md), [gps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gps.md)

### Air Traffic Control and AI Implementation Realities

- **Episode:** [1851: Mork & Mimi](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1851-mork-mimi.md)
- **Published:** 2026-03-15
- **Time:** 1:29:50–1:32:25
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1851-mork-mimi/chapter/air-traffic-control-and-ai-implementation-realities.md

Active air traffic controllers provide "boots on the ground" reports debunking rumors that AI will replace human controllers in the near future. They explain that government technology cycles mean 2026 tech won't be implemented until 2036, and the "human-in-the-loop" instinct remains essential for safety. Conversely, the use of AI in emergency dispatch and the potential for drone-based policing in wealthy neighborhoods is predicted as a more immediate trend.

Keywords: [air traffic control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-control.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [automation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/automation.md), [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), emergency dispatch

### FAA Drone Certification, Pilot Checkride Anecdote

- **Episode:** [1848: Podcaster Down!](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1848-podcaster-down.md)
- **Published:** 2026-03-05
- **Time:** 1:49:23–1:52:16
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1848-podcaster-down/chapter/faa-drone-certification-pilot-checkride-anecdote.md

The requirement for FAA certification to operate drones is discussed, leading to a personal anecdote about a fixed-wing pilot checkride at Willamette Airport. The story involves an examiner asking to fly low to observe a nude sunbather, highlighting unprofessional behavior in aviation testing.

Keywords: [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [pilot license](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pilot-license.md), willamette airport, [helicopter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/helicopter.md)

### El Paso Airport Airspace Closure, Laser Drone Incursion

- **Episode:** [1842: A Dog A Day](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1842-a-dog-a-day.md)
- **Published:** 2026-02-12
- **Time:** 7:51–15:15
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1842-a-dog-a-day/chapter/el-paso-airport-airspace-closure-laser-drone-incursion.md

The Trump administration ordered a temporary closure of El Paso International Airport's airspace following a reported Mexican cartel drone incursion. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy claimed a military laser neutralized the threat, though subsequent reports suggested the target may have been a harmless Mylar party balloon. Local officials criticized the lack of communication regarding the ten-day restriction, which was lifted after several hours.

Keywords: [el paso](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/el-paso.md), [sean duffy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sean-duffy.md), [claudia sheinbaum](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/claudia-sheinbaum.md), [drone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drone.md), [laser](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/laser.md), mylar balloon, cartel, [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md)

### Alef Aeronautics, Flying Cars, FAA Certification

- **Episode:** [1837: Moral Injury](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1837-moral-injury.md)
- **Published:** 2026-01-25
- **Time:** 2:31:19–2:35:29
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1837-moral-injury/chapter/alef-aeronautics-flying-cars-faa-certification.md

Alef Aeronautics is promoting its "Model A" flying car, claiming 3,500 pre-orders at $300,000 each. However, skeptics point out that the vehicle is currently a lightweight prototype with bicycle-style wheels and limited road capabilities. The FAA's "airworthiness certificate" for the vehicle is limited to experimental testing at airfields, contradicting claims that it is ready for public use.

Keywords: [alef aeronautics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alef-aeronautics.md), [flying cars](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flying-cars.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [ev](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ev.md), [startups](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/startups.md)

### Airbus A320 Software Recall and Solar Radiation Bursts

- **Episode:** [1821: Genesis](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1821-genesis.md)
- **Published:** 2025-11-30
- **Time:** 14:14–16:30
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1821-genesis/chapter/airbus-a320-software-recall-and-solar-radiation-bursts.md

The FAA ordered an immediate software update for 6,000 Airbus A320 aircraft following reports that solar radiation bursts could corrupt flight control data. The issue is linked to a JetBlue flight that experienced a sudden loss of altitude in October, resulting in passenger injuries. The manufacturer, Thales, and Airbus are implementing a fix to prevent interference from solar storms.

Keywords: [airbus a320](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airbus-a320.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [solar radiation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/solar-radiation.md), software fix, [jetblue](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jetblue.md)

### US Airport Chaos and FAA Flight Reductions

- **Episode:** [1815: Attunement](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1815-attunement.md)
- **Published:** 2025-11-09
- **Time:** 2:28–7:55
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1815-attunement/chapter/us-airport-chaos-and-faa-flight-reductions.md

The Federal Aviation Administration implemented a 10% reduction in air traffic across 40 major US airports due to staffing shortages caused by the government shutdown. Approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 TSA agents are working without pay, leading to significant delays in hubs like New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas. Representative Katie Porter criticized the move for affecting commercial travelers over private jet users, though reports indicate private aviation hubs like Teterboro were also restricted.

Keywords: [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), katie porter, teterboro airport, [government shutdown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/government-shutdown.md), [air traffic control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-control.md)

### FAA Staffing Crisis and Post-COVID Recovery

- **Episode:** [1815: Attunement](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1815-attunement.md)
- **Published:** 2025-11-09
- **Time:** 7:56–14:58
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1815-attunement/chapter/faa-staffing-crisis-and-post-covid-recovery.md

Former FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt warned that the current air traffic control staffing crisis is unsustainable as controllers face 14-hour shifts without pay. The aviation system was already stressed due to post-COVID early retirements and the lengthy training process required for new controllers. Reports from NPR and PBS highlight the human impact on travelers, including families stranded at airports like Charlotte Douglas due to ground stops.

Keywords: [randy babbitt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/randy-babbitt.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [pbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs.md), [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [air traffic controllers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-controllers.md), [staffing shortages](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/staffing-shortages.md)

### Air Traffic Controllers, Federal Pay and Sick-Outs

- **Episode:** [1804: Mucho Retardo](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1804-mucho-retardo.md)
- **Published:** 2025-10-02
- **Time:** 52:26–55:56
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1804-mucho-retardo/chapter/air-traffic-controllers-federal-pay-and-sick-outs.md

Air traffic controllers and Customs and Border Protection agents are navigating the government shutdown, with many required to work without immediate pay. Reports suggest potential mass sick-outs at critical facilities if the shutdown continues past the next pay cycle on October 24th.

Keywords: [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [air traffic control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-control.md), natca, [government shutdown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/government-shutdown.md), federal pay

### Federal Aviation Administration, Air Traffic Controller Shortage

- **Episode:** [1793: Retribution](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1793-retribution.md)
- **Published:** 2025-08-24
- **Time:** 24:15–27:39
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1793-retribution/chapter/federal-aviation-administration-air-traffic-controller-shortage.md

The Federal Aviation Administration is attempting to fill 3,000 air traffic controller vacancies to address a nationwide staffing crisis. Training at the Oklahoma City academy has been expanded by 30%, though the program maintains a 35% washout rate and rejects 90% of applicants. Current controllers emphasize that while the hiring process is slow, the positions offer full government pensions and health benefits for those aged 18 to 31.

Keywords: [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [air traffic control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-control.md), [oklahoma city](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oklahoma-city.md), [hiring](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hiring.md), federal aviation administration

### JCO, Lieutenant Colonel Roshenko, Counter-Drone Homeland Defense

- **Episode:** [1770: Control Grid](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1770-control-grid.md)
- **Published:** 2025-06-05
- **Time:** 40:22–48:54
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1770-control-grid/chapter/jco-lieutenant-colonel-roshenko-counter-drone-homeland-defense.md

Lieutenant Colonel Roshenko of the Joint Counter Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office (JCO) detailed the challenges of protecting the U.S. homeland from asymmetric drone threats. Recent large-scale tabletop exercises involving thirty agencies highlighted the need for better coordination with the FAA and the implementation of point-of-sale registration for small drones. The JCO is advocating for the deployment of "FS Lids" interceptors and Coyote missiles to create an internal "Golden Dome" defense system against autonomous aerial threats.

Keywords: jco, [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), homeland defense, [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), coyote missile, [golden dome](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/golden-dome.md)

### Boeing Whistleblower, Nikki Haley and Donald Trump

- **Episode:** [1767: Best Clips of The Day](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1767-best-clips-of-the-day.md)
- **Published:** 2025-05-24
- **Time:** 1:26:34–1:30:24
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1767-best-clips-of-the-day/chapter/boeing-whistleblower-nikki-haley-and-donald-trump.md

Pollster Rich Barris discusses the "suicide" of a Boeing whistleblower and Donald Trump's historical decision to ground the 737 Max by presidential order. The segment alleges Nikki Haley enticed Boeing to move operations to South Carolina during her governorship, leading to cost-cutting measures. Barris claims Haley broke a personal vow to Trump by later running against him.

Keywords: [boeing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing.md), [nikki haley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nikki-haley.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [737 max](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/737-max.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [south carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-carolina.md)

### FAA Radar Outages and Pete Buttigieg Criticism

- **Episode:** [1764: Rage Quit](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1764-rage-quit.md)
- **Published:** 2025-05-15
- **Time:** 2:53:51–2:56:29
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1764-rage-quit/chapter/faa-radar-outages-and-pete-buttigieg-criticism.md

The FAA faced questioning on Capitol Hill regarding two major radar outages at a Philadelphia facility that manages flights for Newark. Critics blamed the ongoing delays on Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, while the agency announced plans to add a third communication line to prevent future failures.

Keywords: [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [newark airport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newark-airport.md), [pete buttigieg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pete-buttigieg.md), [air traffic control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-control.md), [radar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radar.md)

### FAA Radar Failures, Philadelphia Tracon Crisis

- **Episode:** [1763: AI Factory](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1763-ai-factory.md)
- **Published:** 2025-05-11
- **Time:** 1:05:05–1:10:02
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1763-ai-factory/chapter/faa-radar-failures-philadelphia-tracon-crisis.md

Radar failures at the Philadelphia Tracon facility have caused massive flight delays at Newark Airport, with the FAA blaming antiquated 1970s technology. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt are using the "glitch" to push for a multi-billion dollar overhaul of the national air traffic control system.

Keywords: [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [newark airport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newark-airport.md), philadelphia tracon, [sean duffy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sean-duffy.md), [karoline leavitt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karoline-leavitt.md)

### Air Traffic Controller Sabotage Claims, Infrastructure Plan

- **Episode:** [1763: AI Factory](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1763-ai-factory.md)
- **Published:** 2025-05-11
- **Time:** 1:10:02–1:13:07
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1763-ai-factory/chapter/air-traffic-controller-sabotage-claims-infrastructure-plan.md

Anonymous air traffic controllers suggest the recent outages may be "scheduled" or acts of sabotage to secure funding for unions. While Secretary Sean Duffy proposes a 10-year overhaul involving new fiber and satellite tech, veteran controllers argue the system mainly needs basic weather and communication updates.

Keywords: [atc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/atc.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [unions](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unions.md), [sean duffy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sean-duffy.md), nashville bombing

### Newark Airport, Air Traffic Control and Communication Failures

- **Episode:** [1762: Stick Fight](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1762-stick-fight.md)
- **Published:** 2025-05-08
- **Time:** 1:59:50–2:02:15
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1762-stick-fight/chapter/newark-airport-air-traffic-control-and-communication-failures.md

A major communication failure at Newark International Airport left air traffic controllers unable to see or speak with aircraft for a brief period. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has requested urgent technology upgrades from Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. The incident caused widespread flight cancellations and led several controllers to take immediate leave.

Keywords: [newark airport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newark-airport.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [air traffic control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-control.md), [phil murphy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/phil-murphy.md), [sean duffy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sean-duffy.md)

### SpaceX Federal Contracts and Starlink FAA Integration

- **Episode:** [1749: Gynocracy](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1749-gynocracy.md)
- **Published:** 2025-03-23
- **Time:** 46:42–48:14
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1749-gynocracy/chapter/spacex-federal-contracts-and-starlink-faa-integration.md

SpaceX is positioned to secure significant new federal contracts under the Trump administration, including a $42 billion rural broadband initiative. There are also calls for the FAA to integrate Starlink to provide reliable weather data for air traffic controllers who currently rely on aging infrastructure.

Keywords: [spacex](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spacex.md), [starlink](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/starlink.md), [federal contracts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federal-contracts.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), rural broadband

### D.C. Helicopter Collision, NTSB Recommendations, Reagan National

- **Episode:** [1746: Bedtime Hygiene](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1746-bedtime-hygiene.md)
- **Published:** 2025-03-13
- **Time:** 3:00:07–3:01:34
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1746-bedtime-hygiene/chapter/d-c-helicopter-collision-ntsb-recommendations-reagan-national.md

The NTSB pushes for stricter flight restrictions near Washington D.C. following a deadly collision between an American Airlines jet and an army helicopter. Investigators found over 15,000 instances of close proximity between planes and choppers at Reagan National Airport over the last three years. The board recommends permanent alternate routes to mitigate "intolerable risks" to aviation safety.

Keywords: [ntsb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ntsb.md), [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), reagan national airport, [helicopter crash](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/helicopter-crash.md), [aviation safety](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aviation-safety.md)

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