Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and his team spent nearly $59,000 on travel using government-managed aircraft from August 2021 to June 2023, as revealed by an inspector general audit. These expenses were incurred over eight trips, which included more than 20 flights, according to the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Office of Inspector General (OIG). The audit scrutinized the justification behind these trips, finding that only three were deemed cost-effective, while the others were approved based on security and scheduling factors.
The report emphasized the importance of upholding public trust by adhering to regulations regarding the use of public resources. The DOT has implemented controls to standardize the approval process for using DOT aircraft to ensure transparency and accountability for federal funds.
Buttigieg utilized Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) jets to attend various events, including local ceremonies to announce federal infrastructure grants. One notable tour in August 2022 involved travel to multiple “swing states,” costing taxpayers an estimated $14,940, justified by unique scheduling needs.
The Secretary’s recent trip to Mexico, costing $14,029, was also taken on the executive fleet, justified by security and communication needs. Although the DOT’s internal metrics suggest cost savings, the OIG indicates that these calculations lack the necessary documentation to confirm such claims.
In response to the findings, a DOT spokesperson highlighted the Secretary’s preference for commercial travel, which accounts for over 82% of his trips, and the cost-saving measures taken when using FAA aircraft.
The OIG report acknowledges compliance with federal regulations under both Buttigieg and his predecessor, Elaine Chao, although it notes that the DOT has occasionally used incorrect cost estimates, which did not impact the justification of aircraft use.
The audit was initiated following a request by Sen. Marco Rubio after concerns were raised regarding the necessity of such costly travel. As travelers navigate the busy holiday season, the debate over the use of taxpayer funds for private travel by public officials continues to be a point of contention.