Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has issued a stark warning that the ongoing government shutdown could disrupt U.S. airports and cause potential flight delays or cancellations if no agreement is reached between Democrats and Republicans to end the crisis. The shutdown, now in its 23rd day, has left air traffic controllers without pay, with many facing their first missed paycheck by October 28. Duffy emphasized that safety remains the top priority, but he acknowledged that staffing shortages could force operational delays. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., echoed these concerns, noting that 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 TSA officers are working without pay, with 19,000 flights delayed and 1,600 canceled in the past three days. Johnson also highlighted that the shutdown coincides with peak travel times, including Thanksgiving and holiday travel, adding to the urgency of resolving the crisis.
U.S. travelers could soon feel the pain of the ongoing government shutdown, according to Duffy, who joined House GOP leaders in a daily press conference on Day 23 of the shutdown to discuss the impact on the nation’s air traffic control system. The Trump Cabinet official expressed concern about air traffic controllers working without pay and facing personal financial strain, with some taking on second jobs to make ends meet. Duffy said that many air traffic controllers are already working under difficult conditions, noting that the shutdown could worsen these challenges further. He warned that without resolution, the situation could lead to unsafe operations, as staffing levels drop and the risk of errors rises.
Duffy also criticized Democrats for prolonging the shutdown by resisting the GOP’s funding plan for over a month, which has led to the current crisis. He suggested that some Democratic senators are influenced by their radical base and are prioritizing political pressure over the needs of the American people. Meanwhile, Senate Democrats have rejected the Republicans’ proposal to extend current federal funding levels through November 21, 12 times. The lack of progress is worsening the impact on the travel industry and could lead to further disruptions in the coming weeks as the holiday season approaches.
The government shutdown shows no signs of ending for now, with both sides locked in a stalemate over federal funding. The crisis has already strained the air traffic control system, which has been grappling with staffing shortages for years. As the shutdown continues, the situation could become even more dire, with more travel delays and cancellations expected, particularly during peak travel periods. The Transportation Department is urging Congress to resolve the funding impasse before it causes widespread disruption to the nation’s travel infrastructure. With Thanksgiving just weeks away, the stakes have never been higher for a resolution, as millions of Americans prepare for their annual holiday travels.