Airlines warn government shutdown could disrupt flights, strain aviation system

U.S. airlines and aviation groups are warning Congress that a government shutdown at midnight would disrupt air travel, jeopardize safety and stall efforts to modernize the nation’s air traffic control system.The warning came in a letter from the Modern Skies Coalition — which includes Airlines for America, the trade group for United, Delta, American, Southwest and other carriers — along with airports, pilots, controllers and manufacturers. The coalition said a shutdown would force the FAA to suspend hiring and training, delay safety initiatives and create costly backlogs across the aviation s