National Times Bureau :- The US government shutdown has entered its 34th day, severely affecting air travel nationwide as thousands of air traffic controllers, TSA officers, and other essential employees continue to work without pay. Staffing shortages have triggered major flight delays and long security lines at airports in cities like Chicago, Houston, Denver, and Newark, raising passenger anxiety over safety and reliability.
Nick Daniels, head of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, warned that the prolonged shutdown is compromising worker focus and overall aviation safety. “Every extra day of this shutdown makes the skies less safe,” he said, noting that many controllers are struggling to meet basic expenses.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged the increased risks but assured that operations remain under control. “If it becomes unsafe, we’ll close the airspace,” he stated.
Experts say absenteeism among TSA staff and controllers will likely rise as employees face mounting financial pressure. Former TSA official Keith Jeffries cautioned that such “call-outs” could intensify delays.
Industry leaders and unions are urging Congress to end the deadlock immediately, warning that while flight safety isn’t yet compromised, the reliability and predictability of US air travel are rapidly deteriorating.
