Flight Attendant Union Responds to Shutdown Deal

The Association of Flight Attendants has issued a statement following the announcement of the end of the government shutdown.

Washington, D.C. (January 25, 2019) In response to the announced deal to end the 35-day government shutdown, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA President Sara Nelson released the following statement:

“It is wonderful news that the there is a deal to end this senseless shutdown, and the lockout of nearly a million Americans from their jobs or their paychecks. This never should have happened and it must never happen again. It should be abundantly clear to the American people that federal workers are not faceless bureaucrats. They are patriotic, dedicated, public servants who keep us safe and make it possible for our country to run. We must NEVER put them in the crosshairs of political disagreement. Flight Attendants cannot express our gratitude deeply enough for the incredible people in federal sector jobs who work every day for our country.”

“To all Americans: if there is anything this shutdown has taught us, it should be that labor rights matter. We must work together to improve rights for working Americans. Our democracy depends on it.”

Earlier today, the shutdown began to result in more ATC delays including ground stops at New York LaGuardia Airport.

The New York Times also reported additional issues at Air Traffic Control facilities due to staffing shortages related to the shutdown.