Summary
If the U.S. government shuts down, air travel may face delays and disruptions. Air traffic controllers would work without pay, and many support staff could be furloughed. Past shutdowns have caused issues like staff shortages and flight delays.
Key Facts
- Congress has a deadline to prevent a government shutdown, which could affect air travel.
- A shutdown could cost the U.S. economy $1 billion each week, according to the U.S. Travel Association.
- Air traffic controllers would have to work without pay, and 3,500 aviation support staff could be furloughed.
- During a previous shutdown in 2019, staff shortages led to significant travel disruptions.
- The FAA plans to stop training new air traffic controllers if the government shuts down.
- There are already about 2,000 fewer air traffic controllers than the staffing target.
- Airlines and air traffic controller associations are urging Congress to prevent the shutdown.
