Federal Government Shutdown Nears Record Length Amid Widespread Staffing, Air Travel Disruptions

The ongoing federal government shutdown, now in its 34th day, has led to widespread disruptions, notably in aviation and federal employee pay. Missouri Congressman Mark Alford and various airlines, including American, Southwest, Delta, and United, have urged Congress to pass a clean continuing resolution (CR) to reopen the government, highlighting the operational and economic impacts of the shutdown. Airlines specifically called on Senate Democrats to approve the House-passed bill, citing concerns over staffing shortages, increasing flight delays, and safety risks due to unpaid air traffic controllers and TSA workers. Federal unions, including the American Federation of Government Employees Local 1040, emphasize the hardship faced by federal workers who are not receiving paychecks, calling for immediate congressional action. The FAA has reported significant staffing shortages at key air traffic facilities, leading to reduced air traffic capacity and delays, underscoring the urgent need to end the shutdown to maintain safety in the National Airspace System. Despite multiple attempts, Senate Democrats have blocked the clean CR, demanding negotiations on health subsidies, prolonging the stalemate and its impacts.