Airline chiefs warn shutdown is pushing U.S. aviation to the brink

Executives urge congress to pass a clean resolution as unpaid staff keep the skies safe but strained

Airline executives from United, American, and the lobbying group Airlines for America urged U.S. leaders to resolve the ongoing government shutdown, citing growing strain on aviation staff and the wider economy. Despite unpaid air traffic controllers and TSA officers keeping flights safe and mostly on time, airline CEOs warned that continued delays in government funding could soon disrupt travel and hurt demand.

Key takeaways

• Unpaid essential workers: Air traffic controllers, TSA officers, and FAA staff are working without pay, keeping operations safe but under mounting personal and financial stress.
• Economic fallout rising: The U.S. Travel Association estimates nearly $4.3 billion in lost travel spending since the shutdown began on October 1.
• Minor delays for now: Fewer than 2% of flights have been delayed due to staffing shortages, but executives warn that prolonged disruption could lead to cancellations and gridlock.
• Call for a “clean” resolution: United and American Airlines, along with Airlines for America, urged Congress to pass a clean continuing resolution (CR) to reopen government operations without policy riders.
• Holiday travel risk: Airlines expect record travel volumes in the coming holiday season, but say ongoing shutdown stress could lead to longer lines, slower processing, and increased passenger frustration.
• Breaking point approaching: Industry leaders describe the situation as “hitting a breaking point,” noting that safety remains intact only because the system is being deliberately slowed to manage risk.

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