Industry body expresses concern over potential staffing shortages at critical agencies as congressional deadlock continues
The US Airforwarders Association (AfA) has expressed its disappointment at the continuing Federal Government shutdown, warning it could create backlogs and disrupt supply chains.
Last week, congress was unable to come to an agreement to end the shutdown, meaning that millions of workers would not have been paid.
There are concerns that absence rates could rise if essential workers across the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) do not start getting paid soon.
“Air cargo depends on a functioning federal government,” said Brandon Fried, executive director, Airforwarders Association.
“TSA, FAA, and CBP employees are showing extraordinary dedication in difficult circumstances, but they cannot be expected to continue indefinitely without pay.
“Congress must find a way forward to end the shutdown, pay these essential workers, and restore confidence in the system that keeps goods and commerce moving.”
The AfA said that TSA officers are responsible for screening cargo and CBP officers "play a critical role" in processing import and export clearances.
"Reduced staffing will slow these operations, creating backlogs that damage supply chains and the wider US economy," the AfA said.
A shortage of FAA staff could disrupt schedules and compromise the efficiency of domestic and international air cargo routes, it added.
The AfA said it would continue to monitor the situation closely and is ready to work with policymakers towards a resolution that "safeguards the stability, safety, and reliability of America’s air cargo network".
The shutdown began on 1 October 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.
