US Government Shutdown Ends as Aviation Operations Return to Full Funding
February 4, 2026 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2026-1770222090535-2404
A partial US government shutdown ended on February 3, as a $1.2 trillion spending package funded most federal agencies through September 30, 2026. The Federal Aviation Administration resumed normal operations after furloughing over 10,000 staff members, and air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration officers returned to work without pay. AeroTime reports that the deal passed the House by a narrow vote and had cleared the Senate before the shutdown took effect. President Donald Trump swiftly signed the legislation, reopening the government after three days of lapses in appropriations.
Key Takeaways
- The US government shutdown ended on February 3, averting disruptions to air traffic control and the broader aviation system.
- A $1.2 trillion spending package funded most federal agencies through September 30, 2026.
- Air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration officers resumed normal pay and staffing levels immediately.
- The partial shutdown had left the Federal Aviation Administration operating under contingency plans, furloughing over 10,000 staff members.
Strategic Implications
This development may indicate a renewed focus on addressing aviation workforce shortages and ensuring stable funding for critical government agencies. The swift passage of the spending package suggests that Congress is prioritizing the needs of the airline industry and air travel infrastructure. However, debate over separate funding segments for key agencies like TSA remains, which could have implications for long-term aviation security.