Around 13,300 air traffic controllers will have to work without pay in connection with the US government shutdown. The aviation industry groups are now warning of both short-term and long-term disruptions.

Air traffic controllers, who are state employees, are among the groups not furloughed during the shutdown that began on Wednesday. This means they must go to work without knowing when they will receive their wages. Meanwhile, several professional groups within the aviation industry must stay at home entirely.

The trade association Airlines for America, which represents several major airlines, warns of consequences if the situation is not resolved soon. 

”When federal employees who manage air traffic, inspect aircraft, and ensure our nation's aviation system are furloughed or working without pay, the entire industry and millions of Americans feel the strain,” stated the industry association in a press release.

The American air traffic controllers' union is on the same track.

”When the federal government shuts down, unnecessary disruptions occur and our entire aviation system is weakened,” states NATCA union president Nick Daniel in another statement.

Large parts of the American state apparatus are closed down on Wednesday morning, Swedish time, as Republicans and Democrats could not agree on a budget in Congress.

Source: DI-TT