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Airspace Closure Threat Amid Government Shutdown

Airspace Closure Threat Amid Government Shutdown

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 Highlights warnings of a potential severe disruption to U.S. air travel if the federal government shutdown persists. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy cautioned that an extended closure could trigger “mass chaos” across the aviation system, resulting in widespread flight delays, cancellations, and possibly even the closure of parts of U.S. airspace due to unmanageable conditions.
The crisis is primarily attributed to rising absenteeism among air traffic controllers, many of whom are being required to work without pay. Reports indicate that at several of the 30 busiest airports, 20% to 40% of controllers have not reported for duty, leading to millions of delayed passengers and increasing operational risks.
Officials warned that if safety standards could no longer be maintained, the national aviation system might have to be shut down entirely. The report draws parallels to the 2019 government shutdown, which ended after similar widespread air travel disruptions pressured lawmakers to act.
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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.