US airline CEOs urge pay protection during shutdowns
Airline leaders warn unpaid aviation staff during shutdowns could worsen delays and disrupt travel across the US.
Travelers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on March 16. (Megan Varner/Getty Images)
Top US airline executives have called on Congress to guarantee pay for aviation workers during government shutdowns, warning that unpaid staff could disrupt air travel. The letter was signed by leaders from both passenger and cargo carriers, including Michael Steen, CEO, Atlas Air Worldwide; Richard Smith, COO International & CEO Airline, FedEx and Nando Cesarone, EVP & President US, UPS; representing the three major cargo operators. Passenger airline signatories include Scott Kirby of United Airlines, Ed Bastian of Delta Air Lines, Robert Isom of American Airlines, Joanna Geraghty of JetBlue Airways, Ben Minicucci of Alaska Air Group, Bob Jordan of Southwest Airlines, and Christopher T. Sununu of Airlines for America.
In a letter dated March 15, 2026, the CEOs said workers such as TSA officers, air traffic controllers and customs staff must be paid even when the government shuts down. They urged lawmakers to pass laws that guarantee salaries for these employees.
The airline leaders said shutdowns have already caused long queues, delays and flight cancellations. They added that the situation is likely to get worse if workers continue to go unpaid.
They also said most Americans support paying aviation workers during shutdowns. At the same time, many believe that long wait times at airport security will increase if the issue is not addressed.
The CEOs warned that the problem is becoming more serious as travel demand rises. With spring break, the FIFA World Cup 2026 and celebrations for America’s 250th year, airlines expect a large number of passengers. However, travellers are already facing long waits at security checkpoints, sometimes between two and four hours.
Airlines said they are trying to reduce disruption by holding flights for late passengers and rebooking travellers, but these steps have limits.
The CEOs also pointed out that TSA officers recently received no pay during shutdown conditions, calling the situation unacceptable.
They said it is important for the government to act quickly to support aviation workers, keep air travel running smoothly, and ensure passengers and cargo reach their destinations safely.
