Elon Musk and Pete Buttigieg discuss hurricane aid after claims of blocked Starlink deliveries

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Elon Musk and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg held discussions on Friday following allegations that federal agencies were blocking aid flights delivering Starlink units to Hurricane Helene victims. Musk initially accused the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of hindering efforts to help those affected by the hurricane, claiming that airspace was restricted, preventing the deployment of Starlink units for emergency internet access.

The issue came to light on Wednesday when former first daughter Ivanka Trump delivered Starlinks and essential supplies to residents in North Carolina. Musk took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticize FEMA for "failing to adequately help people in trouble" and blocking citizen efforts to assist in the aftermath of the hurricane.

Buttigieg responded on X, denying the claims and assuring that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was not blocking any legitimate rescue or recovery flights. He encouraged Musk to contact him directly to address the problem. Musk later confirmed that the two had a conversation and expressed hope for a resolution but did not disclose further details.

Former President Donald Trump praised Musk’s efforts to provide aid, emphasizing the urgent need for communication in areas like Georgia and North Carolina.