Airline Chiefs Urge White House to End U.S. Shutdown
The CEOs of United Airlines and American Airlines are attending a White House roundtable on Thursday with the U.S. government to press for an end to the ongoing federal shutdown. They join senior officials including Vice President J.D. Vance and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to highlight the severe impact of the shutdown on air travel and aviation safety.
Impact on Aviation Amid Shutdown
According to aviation industry sources, more than 13,000 air-traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration officers are working without pay during the shutdown, a situation contributing to spike in unscheduled absences. On one recent day, delays rose to as much as 44% due to controller shortages. Staffing levels at the Federal Aviation Administration remain well below target by about 3,500 positions.
Strategic Stakes and Urgency
The gathering reflects deep concern that the shutdown is straining critical transportation infrastructure with broader economic consequences. Airlines say the disruption threatens the reliability of U.S. air travel and could pressure Congress to reopen the government. Industry leaders argue that without swift action, safety and service standards risk deterioration.
