Delta and United call on Congress to immediately end government shutdown

The US government shutdown has entered its fourth week, and the effects are being felt across various industries, including aviation. Major airlines such as Delta, United, and American Airlines are calling on Congress to reopen the government and pay air traffic controllers. The airlines are urging senators to pass a clean continuing resolution to end the shutdown, which has resulted in air traffic controllers missing their first full paychecks.

The shutdown has caused significant stress for air traffic controllers, who are essential employees required to work without pay. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association has warned that the shutdown is compromising the safety of the National Airspace System, as controllers are distracted by their financial uncertainty. With a longstanding staffing shortage of 3,800 fully certified controllers, the situation is becoming increasingly dire.

Impact on Air Travel

The shutdown has already led to delays at several US airports, although the severe disruptions experienced during the longest-ever shutdown in 2018-2019 have not occurred yet. However, the airlines are warning that a prolonged shutdown will lead to more delays and cancellations, particularly during the busy holiday season. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has emphasized the need for Congress to pass a clean continuing resolution, stating that the shutdown is putting stress on the economy.

American Airlines has also spoken out against the shutdown, saying it is unacceptable that federal employees are working without pay. The airline has warned that a prolonged shutdown will compromise the safety and efficiency of air travel, ultimately affecting the American people. The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that a four-week shutdown would cost the economy at least $7 billion by the end of 2026, with longer shutdowns resulting in even greater economic losses.

Efforts to Resolve the Shutdown

Vice President JD Vance and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy hosted a roundtable with the lobby group Airlines for America, which includes Delta, United, American, and other major airlines. The meeting aimed to discuss the impact of the shutdown on the aviation industry and potential solutions to end the impasse. The airlines are working together to mitigate the effects of the shutdown, but a resolution requires congressional action.

The shutdown began on October 1 after Senate Republicans and Democrats failed to reach an agreement to keep the government open. Democratic senators are insisting that Republicans agree to extend enhanced Affordable Care Act health insurance subsidies before they will vote for funding to reopen the government. As the shutdown continues, the airlines and air traffic controllers are urging Congress to find a solution to end the impasse and ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel.

Key Statistics

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association has reported a staffing shortage of 3,800 fully certified controllers. The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that a four-week shutdown would cost the economy at least $7 billion by the end of 2026. A six-week shutdown would cost $11 billion, and an eight-week shutdown would cost $14 billion. These numbers highlight the significant economic impact of the shutdown and the need for a swift resolution.