US May Close Airspace Due to Government Shutdown, Warns Transportation Secretary
The ongoing US federal government shutdown could result in mass chaos,
potentially forcing the closure of parts of the national airspace, according to US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. The shutdown has already caused significant disruption, with numerous flight delays due to a shortage of air traffic controllers. Staffing shortages are also affecting the release of key data needed for policymaking.
Background of the Shutdown
The current government shutdown, now in its 36th day, is the longest in US history. Since the expiration of the federal budget on October 1, 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration officers have had to continue working without pay. The shutdown has also affected the release of vital data that policymakers need to evaluate the impact of trade wars and to assess price and labor market trends.
Reduction in Air Traffic
To manage the situation, the US Federal Aviation Administration announced that it would reduce air traffic by 10% across 40 high-volume
markets starting Friday, if the government shutdown continues. This move, affecting thousands of flights nationwide, is aimed at maintaining safety during the shutdown as the FAA confronts staffing shortages among air traffic controllers.
Secretary Duffy confirmed that if no agreement is reached to end the shutdown, he would order a 10% reduction in scheduled air traffic at 40 major airports. This plan is intended to help air traffic controllers and could force the cancellation of thousands of flights, adding pressure on Democrats to end the shutdown.
Reactions and Implications
Reacting to the crisis, Vice President JD Vance called on five reasonable Democrats
to come forward and join Republicans and the three Democrats who have voted to reopen the government. He stressed the need to end the shutdown to ensure the payment of air traffic controllers, TSA agents, and pilots, as well as to continue the distribution of food stamp benefits to the American people.
The shutdown's impact on the aviation industry has been severe, with half of the airports in the United States experiencing staffing shortages over the weekend. This has led to flight delays and cancellations, holding travelers and the industry hostage to the political standoff.
Current Status and Threats
As the shutdown drags on, the Trump administration warns of a potential collapse in air travel in November if the shutdown continues. The administration predicts a chaotic scenario as air traffic controllers stop receiving new payments and the country enters the busy holiday season. Absences have surged among US air traffic controllers, who have been working for more than a month without pay. This lack of certified air traffic controllers could cause delays throughout the East Coast, further crippling the aviation industry.
In summary, the ongoing US government shutdown is causing unprecedented disruption in the aviation industry, with potential airspace closures and significant flight reductions. As the deadlock continues, the situation is expected to worsen, jeopardizing the safety and efficiency of air travel.