Government Shutdown Sparks Calls to Ground Private Jets

As Senate Democrats crossed the aisle to reopen the government on Monday night, a significant development emerged regarding private jet travel amid the ongoing government shutdown. A newly passed budget, criticized for making the largest cut to Medicaid in American history to finance the largest tax break for billionaires, has led to flight restrictions affecting private jets.

According to a statement from Ed Bolen, the president and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association, or NBAA, additional restrictions have been imposed at 12 major U.S. airports, further complicating operations for the private aviation sector.

The NBAA highlights that these restrictions disproportionately impact general aviation, an industry responsible for over one million jobs and contributing approximately 340 billion dollars to the economy.

French economist Thomas Piketty has weighed in, suggesting that private jet usage should face a ban as a visible penalty for the wealthy, arguing that this could help bridge the gap between the rich and the poor by demonstrating that those at the top are paying their fair share.

On the same day, former President Donald Trump criticized air traffic controllers who were either absent from work or seeking other employment due to unpaid wages amidst the shutdown. He suggested that their pay could be docked and called for a replacement of those who want to take time off.

As of Monday night, the threat of grounding private jets still loomed, especially as the Senate bill was sent to the House. House members were not all present in Washington, D.C. at that moment, with Speaker Mike Johnson indicating they had 36 hours to return.

Notably, House members who access private jets will find it impossible to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, as it is one of the 12 airports prohibiting these flights. The list of restricted airports also includes major hubs such as Los Angeles International Airport, John F.

Kennedy International Airport in New York City, Chicago O'Hare International Airport, and more. This situation illustrates the tension between luxury air travel and public sentiment during a national crisis, showcasing the antics of billionaires who often turn to private jets for their travel needs.