Story perspectives
Government Shutdown Strains Air Traffic Control Safety
10/4/2025
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Story summary
- The government shutdown furloughed about 750,000 federal employees; air traffic controllers remain unpaid.
- The Federal Aviation Administration halted training and hiring during the shutdown.
- Air traffic controllers face understaffing and 60-hour weeks.
- Nick Daniels, president of the controllers’ union, warns some may seek second jobs.
- Critics including Lisa McCormick blame the Trump administration for safety failures and urge funding.
