Shutdown Chaos: Airlines Face Disruptions Amid Political Stalemate Halting Flights

Delta Air Lines Inc. CEO Ed Bastian condemned the ongoing government shutdown for causing massive flight interruptions, describing it as "unacceptable" and noting that employees have been required to handle demanding roles without receiving pay. The airline was forced to cancel close to 500 flights this week because of federal air traffic limitations,

that has left thousands of passengers stranded and forced airlines to rapidly adapt their schedules.

President Donald Trump has adopted a strict approach toward air traffic controllers, threatening to cut the pay of those who took unpaid leave during the 41-day shutdown, while promising $10,000 bonuses to those who stayed on the job. On Truth Social, Trump stated, "All Air Traffic Controllers must get back to work, NOW!!! Anyone who doesn't will be substantially 'docked,'"

for those who have shown "exceptional service to our Country." According to the FAA, between 20% and 40% of controllers at the 30 busiest U.S. airports have been missing on any given day, that has led to thousands of delayed and canceled flights.

Delta's reduction in flights, which impacts key airports such as Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Chicago O'Hare, was announced as the FAA increased flight cutbacks to 10% at 40 major airports. The airline said it would not charge fare differences for customers who rebook by Nov. 21 and

for flights that were canceled. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, , pointed out that on Saturday, 81 air traffic control centers hit staffing thresholds—the highest number since the shutdown began on Oct. 1.

Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson described the shutdown as a "prolonged national ordeal" and called on both Republicans and Democrats to return to Washington to finalize an agreement to reopen the government. "We anticipate the government will reopen this week," Johnson stated,

the air traffic controllers who have been overburdened and unpaid throughout the crisis.

The political tensions have escalated as both airlines and travelers continue to suffer from the deadlock.

have also encountered major operational issues, with more than 10,000 delays and 2,800 cancellations reported just on Sunday. Trump's remarks have added to the turmoil, of leading airlines following his social media post.

Delta's response underscores the far-reaching consequences of the shutdown, which has now become the longest in U.S. history. Although the Senate has reached an agreement to restore funding, flight interruptions continue as the FAA's order to limit air traffic remains. The aviation sector now faces a significant challenge as it copes with both operational disruptions and ongoing political instability.