The U.S. federal government shutdown has lasted 34 days. According to ABC News, U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao warned on November 3 that due to the ongoing government shutdown, the shortage of air traffic controllers is increasing, and flights across the country may face delays or cancellations.

"If we think it's unsafe... we will close the entire airspace. We won't let people travel. We haven't reached that point yet. Right now, it's just serious delays."

He said: "In order to ensure public safety, we may take measures to delay or cancel all flights within the national airspace."

He added: "When an air traffic controller has to take on two jobs, the entire aviation system faces additional risks."

Data from the Federal Aviation Administration shows that nearly 50% of major air traffic control facilities are experiencing staffing shortages. During the government shutdown, air traffic controllers are working without pay.

Chao warned: "If the government fails to resume operations within the next one or two weeks, looking back, these days will still be considered 'good days,' not 'bad days.'"

When asked whether the Trump administration would consider measures to ensure that air traffic controllers receive their pay, Chao confirmed that the U.S. government is "trying to raise various available funds."

"But there are many real limitations," Chao said, "when the government doesn't get funding support, when it's clear there's no available money, it's extremely difficult to find salary funds for these key positions that keep the country running."

Since October 1, this U.S. federal government shutdown has set a record for the second-longest government shutdown in U.S. history. If this shutdown continues until the 4th, it will match the previous longest period of government shutdowns.

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Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7568517604478812715/

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