U.S. Representative Jen Kiggans Tours ORF ATCT

U.S. Representative Jen Kiggans (Va.-2) recently toured the Norfolk ATCT (ORF), learning from NATCA members Ryan Gough (Norfolk ATCT, ORF) and Fletcher Klavik (Norfolk ATCT, ORF) about Norfolk’s tower and radar operations.

Rep. Kiggans, whose husband is a pilot for United Airlines, was surprised to see some of the ATC equipment currently in use. In addition to having a discussion about modernizing the National Air Space (NAS) and air traffic control facilities, the group talked about the need to supercharge ATC staffing and increase ATC compensation.

After the tour, Rep. Kiggans said she would follow-up with any additional questions she had before a meeting she scheduled with Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.

The discussion with Rep. Kiggans concerning facility modernization was especially timely, as there were water leaks during the tour and the air conditioning malfunctioned just a day later, forcing Norfolk ATCT to shut down on Friday, June 20, 2025.