'This is urgent': Flight attendant union president calls on Congress to open the government

Aviation Industry Impact of Government Shutdown - Flight cancellations are a common strategy to mitigate risks during system disruptions [6] - A 10% reduction in flights is a proactive measure to mitigate risk due to staffing shortages [10][12] - Further flight reductions are expected if the government shutdown continues [11] - The shutdown is slowing down the economy and affecting flight attendants [8] Operational Challenges - Staffing shortages due to the government shutdown are causing significant flight reductions [1] - The air traffic control system is strained, operating like a two-lane street instead of a five-lane highway [12] - TSA officers and air traffic controllers are working without pay, facing financial difficulties [3][4] - Cybersecurity units and other support personnel are furloughed, impacting system support [3] Potential Consequences - People may not be able to get medicine, packages, or visit loved ones [7] - Thanksgiving and Christmas travel could be severely disrupted if the shutdown continues [14][15] - Human factors, such as unpaid workers, will eventually lead to system breakdown [13] Call to Action - Congress needs to open the government and extend subsidies to resolve the crisis [9][16] - The situation is urgent and requires immediate action [15][16]