• The Airforwarders Association warns that federal aviation shutdowns strain air traffic control and staffing, risking delays, slower cargo processing, and disrupted scheduling that impact freight forwarders.
• Time-sensitive and perishable shipments—especially in pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and retail—face heightened vulnerability, with potential financial and supply chain ripple effects.
• Even short-term interruptions can increase operational costs, force rerouting, and affect the broader economy, highlighting the critical role of a fully resourced federal aviation system.

The Airforwarders Association has expressed deep concern about the impact of a partially paralysed federal aviation infrastructure on the safe and timely movement of goods after the US government shut down at midnight on 30th September following the US Senate’s failure to pass a spending bill.

The US federal government last ground to a halt seven years ago during President Donald Trump’s first term. It dragged on f0r 35 days and only ended when US air travel was at risk of significant disruption.

Air traffic control operations are facing significant strain, and federal aviation staff have been directly affected by the shutdown. For freight forwarders, who rely on a predictable, fully resourced aviation system, even minor interruptions can cascade into substantial logistical challenges. Delays at airports, slower processing of cargo, and disruptions in scheduling are among the immediate risks identified by the association.

The implications extend beyond mere timing issues. Businesses that rely on imported or exported goods face potential financial strain, while consumers may see higher costs or shortages of essential items. Perishable goods and time-sensitive shipments are particularly vulnerable, and extended disruptions could ripple through sectors such as pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and retail.

Historically, government shutdowns have highlighted the delicate balance between federal oversight and private sector operations. Airfreight depends heavily on federal resources, from air traffic control to safety inspections and customs processing. Any reduction in staff or operational capacity can undermine this balance, creating bottlenecks that are difficult to resolve once they develop.

Even short-term interruptions can have long-lasting effects on the supply chain. Cargo carriers may face increased operational costs, while businesses may need to reroute shipments or seek alternative, often more expensive, logistics solutions. The financial burden is not limited to the airfreight sector; it extends to the broader economy that depends on the continuous movement of goods.

“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,” a spokesperson for the Airforwarders Association said. “We urge policymakers to resolve this impasse quickly.

“The Airforwarders Association will continue to monitor developments closely and keep members informed.”