Airlines step up to support federal workers as nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers go unpaid

Core Viewpoint - Major U.S. airlines are actively supporting air traffic controllers and federal employees who are working without pay due to the ongoing government shutdown, which began on October 1 and has continued for weeks without resolution [1]. Group 1: Airline Responses - American Airlines is committed to supporting federal workers by providing meals at airports nationwide [3][7]. - Southwest Airlines is working to minimize flight disruptions, acknowledging that air traffic control is ultimately managed by the FAA, and they will adjust flight schedules if staffing issues arise [9]. - Alaska Airlines referred to a statement from Airlines for America urging lawmakers to pass a resolution to reopen the government, highlighting the stress on federal employees due to missed paychecks [10][11]. - United Airlines is also donating meals to federal workers, including air traffic controllers, during the shutdown [13]. - Delta Air Lines and JetBlue are providing meals to transportation sector workers as a gesture of support [15]. Group 2: Impact on Air Traffic Control - Approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 TSA officers are considered essential and must continue working without pay during the shutdown [1]. - Airlines for America warned that the stress on federal employees could lead to a slowdown in operations, potentially causing delays in air travel [11][13].