US Government Shutdown Threatens "Disaster" for Air Travel as FAA Faces Critical Staffing Crisis

Oct 31, 2025 09:30 am CST

The month-long US government shutdown has created an escalating crisis in aviation as Vice President JD Vance warns of a potential air travel "meltdown" if the impasse continues. With air traffic controllers missing paychecks and taking second jobs, major airports are already experiencing delays and ground stops. Transportation officials caution the situation could deteriorate dramatically as November's peak travel season approaches, while political disagreements over healthcare funding prevent resolution.