Transportation Secretary Pete Duffy has refused to commit to a timeline for resuming air travel operations as the government shutdown approaches its conclusion. In a statement, Duffy emphasized that the decision to restore flights will be based on data and operational feasibility rather than political pressure. He warned that if the shutdown continues beyond its projected end, it could lead to significant disruptions in air travel, with some airlines potentially forced to ground their entire fleets due to staffing and operational challenges.
The situation has raised concerns among aviation industry stakeholders, who are closely monitoring the potential impact of prolonged government shutdown on flight schedules and service. The federal government’s control over air traffic control and airport operations means that delays in resuming services could have wide-reaching financial implications for airlines and passengers alike. With the shutdown showing no signs of ending soon, industry experts are urging authorities to expedite the process of restoring flight operations to minimize economic disruptions.