After more than 30 days of a government shutdown, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines have urged Congress to reopen the U.S. government and pay air traffic controllers, calling on senators to “immediately pass a clean continuing resolution.”
The CEOs of the country’s largest airlines told Congress in a roundtable with Vice President JD Vance and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy that, for the first time this week, U.S. air traffic controllers did not receive their full paychecks.
After the talks, the lobby group Airlines for America stated, “Airlines remain focused on preserving safety and trying to mitigate the operational impacts of this shutdown. We are expecting a record holiday travel season; however, if the shutdown continues much longer, Americans will have to pack their patience and be prepared for more delays.”
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby said, “It has been 30 days – I also think it is time to pass a clean CR.” He also mentioned that Congress should discuss other policy issues, like health care, once the shutdown ends.
Delta released a statement saying, “Missed paychecks only increases the stress on these essential workers, many of whom are already working mandatory overtime to keep our skies safe and secure.”
Following the meeting, American Airlines commented, “A prolonged shutdown will lead to more delays and cancellations — and the American people, especially during the busy holiday season, deserve better.”
The meeting occurred as the government shutdown extends into its fourth week without any definitive resolution.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
