The Airforwarders Association expresses deep concern over supply chain disruptions as government shutdown affects federal aviation staff
US airfreight forwarders have expressed concern about the potential impact of the Federal Government shutdown on air cargo operations.
The US Federal Government yesterday went into shutdown after Republicans and Democrats failed to agree a new spending plan. It is the first shutdown in more than seven years.
While essential roles like air traffic control and Customs and Border Protection will continue to work, there could be delays to certifications and approvals of new routes, while the furlough of support staff could affect several other areas of aviation.
The Airforwarders Association (AfA) said it was ”deeply concerned about the impact of the Federal Government shutdown on the nation’s air cargo system”.
"With air traffic control operations under pressure and federal aviation staff affected, there is a real risk of delays, disruptions, and added costs across the supply chain," the association said.
"Freight forwarders depend on safe, predictable, and fully resourced aviation infrastructure to keep goods moving for businesses and consumers alike.
"We urge policymakers to resolve this impasse quickly. The safe and efficient flow of air cargo is not optional — it underpins the economy and supports communities across the United States and around the world."
The AfA said it would continue to monitor developments closely and keep members informed.
The last US federal government shutdown occurred in December 2018 and lasted 35 days. It was the longest shutdown in history.
Freight forwarders are providing shippers with a degree of much-needed stability as tariffs, US de minimis regulatory reform and new compliance demands add to supply chain insecurity, said AfA executive director Brandon Fried.
