US flight delays threaten economy as airlines react to shutdown

The ongoing 40-day U.S. government shutdown is severely disrupting air travel, with thousands of flight cancellations and delays due to a shortage of air traffic controllers. Airlines warn the situation could impact economic growth, while stock markets respond positively to potential legislative relief.

Air travel in the United States is facing unprecedented disruption as the government shutdown continues into its 40th day. On Sunday alone, more than 2,800 flights were canceled and over 10,200 delayed at major airports, marking the worst day since the shutdown began. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that delays are likely to worsen ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, which typically drives millions of travelers.

The economic impact is mounting, with White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett warning that restricted air travel during this critical holiday period could slow fourth-quarter GDP growth. Airlines for America estimates the shutdown has disrupted travel plans for over 4 million passengers since October 1 and projects a daily economic loss of $285–580 million by next Friday if the shutdown persists.

Stock markets reacted to the Senate’s advancement of a bill to end the shutdown, with United Airlines shares up 1.9%, followed by Delta and American Airlines rising 1.4% in premarket trading, and Alaska Air up 1%. Investors are optimistic that legislative action could restore federal staffing, allowing air traffic to normalize and supporting airline revenues during the peak travel season.