Aviation Operations Impacted by Government Shutdown Since October 1
The federal government shutdown commencing on October 1, 2025, has had a significant impact on aviation operations. Thousands of FAA employees are now on furlough. The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) was among 50 aviation organizations that warned Congress about the potential negative impacts before the shutdown took place.
As per the Department of Transportation’s contingency plan, the FAA anticipated the furlough of 11,322 of its 44,829 employees. Meanwhile, 25,668 were designated as safety-critical staff who were required to continue working without pay. The shutdown has led to the suspension of air traffic controller hiring and training, delays in safety initiatives, postponement of maintenance of critical equipment, and suspension of aircraft inspections and pilot checkrides.
Aviation industry groups have raised concerns that the furlough of critical safety support staff and suspension of programs are making it difficult for air traffic controllers and aviation safety professionals to perform at optimal levels. The EAA had previously supported the “Aviation Funding Stability Act”. This Act would allow essential FAA programs to be funded through the Airport and Airway Trust Fund for up to 30 days during shutdowns.
Source: EAA