Major US Carriers Call on Congress to Resolve Aviation Shutdown

United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines are jointly pressing Congress to resolve a government shutdown that has lasted nearly a month, citing operational disruptions and unpaid federal aviation personnel. The carriers are calling for the immediate passage of a short-term funding bill to restore pay for air traffic controllers and other essential workers.

“The quickest way to end this shutdown and get these workers paid is by passing a clean continuing resolution,” American Airlines said on Oct. 30. The four carriers are increasing pressure on lawmakers as flight operations across the country are affected.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby echoed the call following a meeting with Vice President J.D. Vance and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. “It has been 30 days. I also think it is time to pass a clean CR,” Kirby said, highlighting the growing strain on the aviation system as staffing shortages coincide with delayed federal pay.

According to the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, roughly 11,000 controllers are working without pay. This week marked the first missed paycheck, raising concerns over absenteeism and reduced staffing nationwide. On Oct. 30, FlightAware reported nearly 7,300 flight delays in the US, with airline officials warning of potential cancellations and safety risks if the standoff continues. The FAA is already operating with about 3,500 fewer controllers than its target staffing level.

Vice President Vance cautioned that extending the shutdown into November could spell a “disaster” for aviation. Meanwhile, Democratic senators rejected the GOP’s short-term funding bill for the 13th time, insisting any resolution also address the renewal of expiring healthcare subsidies.

Industry leaders warn that continued disruption could have long-term effects on the sector’s reliability, causing cascading delays and operational challenges across major hubs. The shutdown, which began on Oct. 1 after Senate Republicans and Democrats failed to reach an agreement, remains unresolved. According to the Congressional Budget Office, a four-week shutdown could reduce economic output by at least US$7 billion by the end of 2026, with losses rising to US$11 billion after six weeks and US$14 billion after eight weeks.