Summary
If the government shuts down, it could cause problems for air travel in the U.S. Many workers like air traffic controllers and airport security staff may have to work without pay, affecting safety and causing delays. Negotiations in Congress have not yet resulted in a plan to avoid the shutdown.
Key Facts
- A government shutdown could start at midnight on Tuesday if funding is not approved.
- Airlines warn that air safety could be impacted due to a lack of funding.
- Airport workers, like TSA and air traffic controllers, may work without pay, leading to delays and long lines.
- There is already a shortage of 3,800 air traffic controllers, which could worsen during a shutdown.
- A shutdown might lead to $3 billion in lost economic activity over 35 days, similar to past shutdowns.
- The FAA might have to stop hiring and training, affecting air traffic control operations.
- A coalition of airlines has expressed concerns that a shutdown would harm air travel safety and modernization efforts.
- Congress is struggling to pass a funding plan, with disagreements between the House and Senate blocking progress.
