WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Trump’s Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Celebrates Alaska Airlines & Boeing’s Historic Deal

Highlights from Secretary Duffy’s remarks: 

“American manufacturing is back. Whether it's aviation or automotive, we want to make the best products in the world, in America. And not just sell them to Americans, we want to sell them around the world to show the great work that our men and women do in this country. Instead of being an importer, let's export great American products.” 

...  

“I think that's great with what Alaska is doing, they're going to modernize their fleet. They're going to expand their fleet. They're going to expand their offering, and what that means is more people are going to travel, more people want more options. We want competitive airlines and the more competition that we have with more routes from airlines like Alaska with newer, nicer aircraft, that means the consumer is better served with better prices.” 

... 

“Last year, we announced a brand-new air traffic control system, and that new system—again—we're moving from the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s equipment, moving it into the modern era, going from copper to fiber, analog to digital, new radar, new software systems. What that's going to do for us is allow us to more efficiently operate the airspace, which means, there's less time on the ground, there's less fuel wasted, there's less hours wasted, more time flying. And we have happier consumers, happier, air travelers.”  

See what others are saying below: 

Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Airlines: 
“This fleet investment builds on the strong foundation Alaska has created to support steady, scalable and sustained growth, and is another building block in executing our Alaska Accelerate strategic plan. These planes will fuel our expansion to more destinations across the globe and ensure our guests travel aboard the newest, most fuel-efficient and state-of-the-art aircraft. We are incredibly proud to be partnering with Boeing, a Pacific Northwest neighbor and a company that stands as a symbol of American innovation and manufacturing.” 

Kelly Ortberg, CEO of Boeing: 
“[Secretary Duffy has] been tirelessly working on improving the safety and efficiency of our air traffic management system, and on safety and certification of new aircraft and capability into the market.” 

U.S. Rep. Nicholas Begich (AK-01):  
“This announcement marks the beginning of a new era for American aviation. Alaska Airlines’ decision to expand its fleet with American-made aircraft reflects renewed confidence in U.S. manufacturing and a belief in the strength of American aerospace workers. This investment supports thousands of American jobs and reinforces the role of domestic manufacturing in keeping the United States - and the Last Frontier - at the forefront of global aviation.” 

U.S. Rep. Jay Obernolte (CA-23): 
“I am pleased to see this historic aircraft order, the largest in Alaska Airlines’ history, which underscores the strength of American manufacturing and the unmatched innovation in our aerospace industry. This investment will create good paying jobs, drive technological advancement, and keep the United States competitive in the global aviation market. Boeing’s continued leadership and Alaska Airlines’ investment reflect strong confidence in America’s industrial and technological capabilities.” 

U.S. Rep. Ken Calvert (CA-41): 
“This announcement by Alaska Airlines represents its largest aircraft order in company history and is a massive shot in the arm for American manufacturing. I applaud the Department of Transportation, Alaska Airlines, and Boeing for making this a reality.”