Partial Government Shutdown Threatens Smaller Airports

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that smaller airport terminals could be forced to close if the partial government shutdown continues, as tens of thousands of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers work without pay. The shutdown, which began on February 13, has led to rising absentee rates among TSA personnel, with about 10% of officers absent from work each day since March 15. The situation is expected to worsen next week when TSA officers miss another paycheck, with travelers likely to see more severe effects, including potential complete shutdowns of smaller airport terminals. The warning comes as airlines prepare for a record-breaking spring travel season, with major US airline chief executives urging Congress to end the standoff and restore pay to airport security officers. This development was first reported by AeroTime.