Shutdown Turbulence: Airlines Struggle as Political Deadlock Grounds Flights

Delta Air Lines Inc. CEO Ed Bastian criticized the government shutdown that has caused widespread flight disruptions, calling it an "inexcusable" situation that has forced workers to perform high-stress jobs without pay. The carrier canceled nearly 500 flights this week due to federal air traffic restrictions, exacerbating a crisis that has left thousands of travelers stranded and airlines scrambling to adjust operations.

President Donald Trump has taken a hardline stance on air traffic controllers, threatening to dock the pay of those who took unpaid leave during the 41-day shutdown while offering $10,000 bonuses to those who remained on duty. In a Truth Social post, Trump wrote, "All Air Traffic Controllers must get back to work, NOW!!! Anyone who doesn't will be substantially 'docked,'" adding that he would recommend bonuses for "distinguished service to our Country". The FAA has reported that 20% to 40% of controllers at the 30 largest U.S. airports have been absent on any given day, leading to staffing shortages that have triggered thousands of flight delays and cancellations.

Delta's flight cuts, which affect major hubs like Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Chicago O'Hare, were announced as the FAA escalated flight reductions to 10% at 40 major airports. The airline said it would waive fare differences for customers rebooking flights by Nov. 21 and offered refunds or eCredits for canceled trips. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who has repeatedly warned of staffing crises, noted that 81 air traffic control centers faced staffing triggers on Saturday-the highest since the shutdown began on Oct. 1.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, meanwhile, called the shutdown a "long national nightmare" and urged fellow Republicans and Democrats to return to Washington to finalize a reopening deal. "We look forward to the government reopening this week," Johnson said, emphasizing the need to address the "overworked and unpaid" air traffic controllers who have been central to the crisis.

The political fallout has intensified as airlines and travelers bear the brunt of the impasse. American Airlines and United Airlines have also faced severe disruptions, with over 10,000 delays and 2,800 cancellations reported on Sunday alone. Trump's comments have further rattled the market, causing shares of major carriers to dip after his social media post.

Delta's actions highlight the ripple effects of the shutdown, which has become the longest in U.S. history. While a Senate deal to end the funding lapse has been reached, flight disruptions persist as the FAA directive to reduce air traffic remains in place. The airline industry now faces a critical test of resilience as it navigates both operational challenges and political uncertainty.