Airline Sector Impact - The longest government shutdown in history is affecting the airline sector, leading to many flight delays and cancellations, with air traffic controllers missing a second paycheck [1] - The Trump administration has ordered airlines to cut flights at 40 U.S. airports, resulting in a current flight reduction of 5.5%, which could increase to 10% by the end of the week [1] Airline Stock Performance - American Airlines (NASDAQ:AAL) shares are down 2% to $13.37, having previously reached their highest level since March, with a year-to-date decline of 23.1% [2] - Delta Air Lines Inc (NYSE:DAL) stock is trading flat near $58.87, maintaining a 15.7% six-month gain, with support at the $55 level [3] - United Airlines Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:UAL) stock is down 0.4% to $97.03, with a solid support level at $90, and has increased over 23% in the last six months [4]

Core Points - U.S. airline share prices declined by at least 1% following the FAA's announcement of flight reductions at 40 major airports due to a government shutdown [1][3] - Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines parent company Alaska Group saw a drop of approximately 2.2%, while American Airlines Group fell by 1.5% [2][3] - The FAA's decision to reduce flights by 10% is a safety measure amid staffing issues caused by the government shutdown, potentially affecting 3,500 to 4,000 flights daily [7][8] Airline Responses - United Airlines stated that most customers' travel plans would proceed as scheduled and offered refunds for those who do not wish to fly [6] - Delta Airlines echoed similar sentiments, promising to provide notice to impacted customers and allowing changes or cancellations without penalties [6] Staffing Concerns - Air traffic controllers are expected to resign if they receive a $0 pay statement due to missed paychecks, which could exacerbate staffing shortages [5][8] - The government shutdown has already led to absenteeism among air traffic controllers and TSA officers, impacting airport operations [8]