March 15, 2026 — Washington, D.C. — Chief executives of major U.S. airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Air Group, Atlas Air Worldwide, FedEx and UPS, issued an open letter criticizing Congress over the government shutdown’s impact on U.S. air travel. The CEOs urged lawmakers to end the 29-day partial Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown, fund TSA operations and ensure back pay for 50,000 unpaid airport security officers amid surging spring travel demand.
The letter, released Sunday, describes air travel as a “political football” due to the shutdown that began February 13, 2026, over disagreements on immigration enforcement reforms. It highlights extraordinary security lines, worker absences and resignations straining the system ahead of record passenger volumes.
Key Impacts Cited
Airline CEOs criticize Congress over government shutdown’s impact on U.S. air travel by pointing to over 300 TSA officers who have quit since the shutdown started, doubled absences and lines exceeding two to four hours at airports including Houston Hobby, New Orleans, Newark and San Antonio. On March 15, FlightAware reported 2,632 U.S. flights delayed and 1,678 canceled.
“Too many travelers are having to wait in extraordinarily long – and painfully slow – lines at checkpoints.”
“Once again air travel is the political football amid another government shutdown.”
The executives noted airlines expect 171 million passengers this spring, up 4% from last year, coinciding with spring break, the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 and America’s 250th birthday celebrations. TSA workers received $0 paychecks on March 13, prompting some airports to close checkpoints or fundraise for essentials.
Calls for Action
The CEOs called for immediate DHS funding and bipartisan bills like the Aviation Funding Solvency Act, Aviation Funding Stability Act and Keep America Flying Act to guarantee pay for TSA, Customs and air traffic controllers during future shutdowns.
“This problem is solvable, and there are solutions on the table. Now it’s up to you, Congress, to move forward on bipartisan proposals that will get federal aviation workers… paid during shutdowns.”
“Americans – who live in your districts and home states – are tired of long lines at airports, travel delays and flight cancellations caused by shutdown after shutdown.”
This follows a 43-day shutdown last fall that caused widespread disruptions and FAA-mandated flight cuts.
Broader Context
Airline CEOs criticize Congress over government shutdown’s impact on U.S. air travel as the Senate failed March 12 to advance TSA funding. The letter represents Airlines for America members and comes amid jet fuel pressures from Middle East tensions. TSA apps for wait times are also offline.