Major U.S. airlines and travel organizations are pressing Congress to end the ongoing government shutdown and ensure federal aviation workers receive paychecks. On March 5, 2026, the U.S. Travel Association, Airlines for America, American Association of Airport Executives, and American Hotel & Lodging Association launched the “Pay Federal Aviation Workers” campaign, activating public support for legislation to protect essential employees during funding lapses.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents, and FAA air traffic controllers—deemed essential—continue working without pay amid the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown, now nearly three weeks long. TSA’s roughly 64,000 employees faced their first $0 paycheck on March 14, leading to over 300 resignations and increased sick calls, resulting in short-staffed airports, longer security lines, and delays during spring break travel.
Executives from Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest, JetBlue, and others sent a letter to Congress on March 15, highlighting passenger disruptions like long lines and cancellations, echoing a prior 43-day shutdown that delayed or canceled 9,000 flights, affected six million travelers, and caused $6.1 billion in industry losses.
The groups advocate for the Aviation Funding Solvency Act and Aviation Funding Stability Act for air traffic controllers, plus the Keep America Flying Act for TSA officers, ensuring pay regardless of funding status. Industry leaders warn of potential “sick outs” and staffing crises as travel demand rises, stressing risks to safety and efficiency.