Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that the United States is likely to face severe travel disruptions this weekend if Congress does not end the ongoing government shutdown. Duffy stated that over 10% of flights nationwide could be delayed, with the possibility that some airlines might suspend their operations entirely.
Duffy described last weekend’s delays, which resulted in more than 4,500 flight cancellations, as a mere preview of the chaos that could ensue if the shutdown persists. He indicated that the current situation for air traffic has already been critically impacted as many air traffic controllers are calling in sick, struggling financially due to being weeks without pay. This has forced airports to limit the number of flights they can safely handle to prevent accidents.
Duffy mentioned that there were 81 staffing triggers enacted last Saturday, forcing safety measures that caused nearly 19,000 delays. By Tuesday, the air traffic situation had improved, with only four triggers in place, showing a sign of hope as airport personnel appeared more optimistic about a potential resolution.
The Senate has approved a spending bill that is expected to be voted on by the House soon, and if it passes, it would then be up to President Trump to sign the bill to reopen the government. Duffy expressed confidence that air traffic controllers are feeling encouraged by the possible end to the shutdown and that many are returning to work.
He also highlighted that controllers would receive 70% of their back pay within 48 hours after the government reopens, with the remaining pay following shortly afterward. However, Duffy cautioned that if the vote in Congress fails and the shutdown continues into the weekend, the disruptions could be significantly worse.
Duffy backed President Trump’s idea of giving bonuses to air traffic controllers who continued to work during the shutdown, proposing a $10,000 bonus while questioning the “patriotism” of those who called out sick.
For further information, refer to the government shutdown and travel delays update.