US EditionU.S. may be forced to close some airspace next week if shutdown continues, Duffy says
- On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the Department of Transportation might close parts of U.S. airspace if the government shutdown continues into next week.
- Staffing shortfalls have emerged as the shutdown reaches its 35th day, leaving essential workers unpaid and causing a shortage of 2,000 to 3,000 controllers at least 35 air traffic control sites.
- Duffy cited mounting disruptions as airports across the country face delays and cancellations, and a recent low-speed collision at LaGuardia Airport raised controller shortage concerns.
- Duffy warned travelers nationwide could face mass cancellations and airspace closures as the DOT struggles with air traffic control operations, and he may halt air traffic entirely if safety worsens.
- They have until Nov. 14 to finish all inspections, with SEPTA completing 114 of 225 Silverliner IV train cars, causing delays as Governor Josh Shapiro seeks $167 million funding.
170 Articles
170 Articles
Impending Airspace Turmoil: U.S. Shutdown May Force National Airspace Closure
Impending Airspace Turmoil: U.S. Shutdown May Force National Airspace Closure U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy cautioned on Tuesday that extending the federal government shutdown for another week might compel a partial closure of the national airspace. This warning comes as a result of ongoing travel turmoil and a subsequent selloff in airline shares.The shutdown, now in its 35th day, has left air traffic controllers and airport security…
By Alexandra Skores, CNN. The Department of Transportation (DOT) could close parts of U.S. airspace if enough air traffic controllers don't show up for work, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said Tuesday. “If you take us a week from today, Democrats, you're going to see massive chaos,” Duffy said at a news conference Tuesday. “You're going to see massive flight delays, you're going to see numerous cancellations, and you may see us close certa…
Transportation Secretary Warns Agency May Have to Close Airspace Next Week
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that his agency might have to close sections of the U.S. airspace next week due to the ongoing government shutdown, citing a lack of air traffic controllers. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Duffy said that if the government isn’t reopened soon, there will be “mass chaos” including flight delays, flight cancellations, and the closure of airspace in some areas. The secretary said that a week from Tuesda…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 55% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
