The current government shutdown has triggered significant unrest across various sectors, particularly within the aviation industry. The timing is notably poor as many Americans prepare for the busy holiday travel season, which puts added pressure on an already strained system.

Vice President JD Vance is set to host a roundtable Thursday with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and airline industry leaders. He has called for urgent action to address the shutdown’s fallout. According to a White House official, the ongoing situation has severely affected the aviation sector, including air traffic controllers who recently missed their first full paycheck. This financial strain is compounded by delays and staffing shortages at major airports.

The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), representing about 4,400 aircraft maintenance technicians from various airlines, has openly urged Congress to pass a “clean continuing resolution.” National President Bret Oestreich articulated the sentiments of the union members, emphasizing their solidarity with air traffic controllers and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel who continue to ensure safety despite not receiving pay. “It’s time for Congress to reconvene in a bipartisan manner to pass a clean CR and support all the men and women in aviation,” Oestreich stated, underscoring the urgency experienced by those in the industry.

The roots of this shutdown trace back to a budgetary impasse that began on October 1. With Senate lawmakers unable to agree on funding, the situation has escalated, leading to finger-pointing. Republicans, including Vance, have firmly placed the blame on Democrats for what they call the “Democrat Shutdown.” Vance, in a recent speech, highlighted the overwhelming Republican support for reopening the government and criticized Democrats for their lack of cooperation. “Every single Republican…supported it, and then it got 52 Republicans in the Senate and three Democrats,” he noted, reinforcing his view that procedural hurdles caused by Senate rules are exacerbating the situation.

Senate Minority Leader’s remarks further echo this sentiment, calling for an immediate resolution to the shutdown and framing the lack of negotiation as a detriment to Americans. “Every day that Republicans refuse to negotiate to end this shutdown, the worse it gets for Americans,” he stated, outlining the widening impact of the situation.

In addition to the aviation industry, the shutdown is affecting the lives of countless Americans. Families are on the brink of losing essential federal food assistance, small business owners are missing out on crucial funding, and approximately 750,000 federal employees have been furloughed. The strain is evident as predictions of chaos at airports loom. Major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and Newark have reported increased delays due to the lack of air traffic controllers.

Duffy, addressing the press, acknowledged the immense pressure on air traffic controllers who bear the weight of familial responsibilities while facing missed paychecks. “They need to show up for work…the fact that they are working, and oftentimes, they are heads of households,” he said, articulating the personal struggles behind the professional challenges.

As discussions unfold at the White House Thursday, the message from the aviation unions is clear: restore funding to safeguard the industry’s integrity and protect the livelihood of those who ensure safe travel for millions. The need for collaboration in Congress is more pressing than ever, as the shadow of the government shutdown threatens to overshadow the celebrations of the upcoming holiday season.