U.S. may close parts of airspace if shutdown continues, transportation secretary warns

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has warned that the United States may need to close parts of its airspace if the ongoing government shutdown continues, leading to persistent staffing shortages. This potential closure is a response to concerns about maintaining air travel safety amid reduced personnel availability. The warning highlights the significant impact that the shutdown could have on the aviation sector, potentially disrupting flights and travel plans. Staffing shortages caused by the shutdown have raised alarms about the ability to effectively manage and monitor airspace. While no closures have yet occurred, the possibility underscores the urgency of resolving the shutdown to prevent further complications. The transportation department is closely monitoring the situation to ensure safety remains a priority. This development signals a critical intersection between government operations and national transportation infrastructure.