Governing
Jared Brey
28 October 2025
The shutdown has caused flight delays across the country. But some rural areas are at risk of losing flight service altogether.
The government shutdown, which has dragged out to 28 days, could risk funding for Essential Air Service, a U.S. DOT program that subsidizes commercial flights to small airports.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced earlier this month that DOT had secured $41 million more to extend funding through Nov. 2.
Some flight providers say they’ll continue serving Essential Air Service communities, but an extended shutdown could test those commitments.
Government Shutdown Threatens Rural Air Service - Governing - 28 October 2025
