Washington, D.C. — America’s skies are in turmoil as the ongoing US government shutdown disrupts the nation’s aviation network, forcing airlines to cancel nearly 10% of domestic flights and temporarily close several major airports during peak holiday travel.
Airlines and industry groups are warning of massive travel chaos, citing critical staff shortages among air traffic controllers, TSA agents, and maintenance crews. Major hubs in Atlanta, Chicago, and New York are bracing for hours-long delays and possible terminal shutdowns if the budget standoff continues.
Travel analysts estimate potential losses exceeding $600 million for airlines and hospitality sectors combined, while stranded passengers flood airports demanding refunds and alternate routes. The Airlines for America group urged immediate government action, calling the situation “a preventable collapse of the nation’s air travel system.”
Transportation experts warn that the shutdown’s impact could ripple beyond the skies — affecting cargo shipments, logistics networks, and tourism during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
