The U.S. government shutdown has entered its 35th day, tying the record for the longest in history. Its impact on air travel has now become critical, threatening the safety and efficiency of American skies.
Air Traffic Shortage Threatens Safety
The Department of Transportation warned that if the shutdown continues, sections of U.S. airspace may have to close. With around 13,000 air traffic controllers working without pay, many have begun calling in sick or quitting for stable jobs.
Major airports, including JFK, Newark, and Chicago O’Hare, are already facing flight delays and cancellations. The shortage of controllers is pushing the system to a breaking point, endangering both safety and schedules.
Staffing Collapse Across Major Hubs
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that safe air traffic management depends on trained personnel. If staffing levels drop further, shutting down parts of airspace could become unavoidable. Nearly half of all air traffic control facilities are now understaffed, with absentee rates in New York nearing 80 percent.
Travelers Bear the Brunt
The crisis has left millions of passengers stranded, delayed, or rerouted. With controllers unpaid and overworked, the FAA has been forced to restrict air traffic, reducing flight capacity and costing airlines and passengers millions every day.
Political Gridlock Deepens the Crisis
What began as political posturing in Washington has now spiralled into a national safety issue. A government that cannot pay its own safety staff is risking both lives and trust. Every additional day of shutdown weakens infrastructure, damages confidence, and erodes the global credibility of American aviation.
