World Business Report US government shutdown grounds thousands of flights
Nov 7, 2025
Nomiya Iqbal, a North America correspondent reporting on political impacts, discusses the disruptions in US flights due to the government shutdown. Sarah Anderson, an expert on executive pay, highlights the alarming income inequality exacerbated by CEO pay gaps. Chris Lowe, a chief economist, sheds light on consumer sentiment amidst economic uncertainty. Milton Walker shares the challenges faced by Jamaica post-Hurricane Melissa and the crucial $150 million bond payout that will assist in recovery efforts.
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Shutdown Severely Disrupts Air Travel
- The US government shutdown has triggered over 2,000 flight delays or cancellations as unpaid air traffic controllers call in sick or seek other work.
- Longer shutdowns risk far worse disruptions, especially around peak travel days like Thanksgiving.
Shutdown’s Wider Social Impact
- Domestic air travel in the US is especially vulnerable because many people treat flying like taking the train and rely heavily on it.
- The shutdown also compounds other social harms like paused SNAP benefits and unpaid federal workers.
Controversial Trillion-Dollar Pay Deal
- Tesla's board approved a package that could pay Elon Musk up to $1 trillion if ambitious targets are met, but governance changes and legal maneuvers weakened shareholder challenges.
- Critics call the deal extraordinary, potentially allowing awards even if targets aren't fully met.