An air traffic control tower at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. [Shutterstock]
Key Takeaways:
Senator Ted Cruz introduced the "Keep America Flying Act of 2026" to ensure essential FAA and TSA staff are paid using Treasury funds during a federal government shutdown.
The bill aims to alleviate financial pressure on these critical workers, whose missed paychecks due to the ongoing shutdown have led to increased sick calls among air traffic controllers and subsequent flight delays.
The legislation underscores the importance of these essential staff for the "safe and orderly operation of the national airspace system" and to prevent potential disruptions to domestic holiday travel.
A new bill introduced by Senator Ted Cruz of Texas would set aside money to pay essential FAA and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staff through the duration of the federal government shutdown.
The legislation, known as the “Keep America Flying Act of 2026,” was read in the Senate on October 22, but only recently did Congress’ website upload its full text.
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Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.
