Marketplace All-in-One No shutdown relief for air travel yet
Nov 11, 2025
Peter Atwater, a behavioral economist and author known for his insights on economic sentiment, shares his expertise on the ongoing struggles in air travel amidst government shutdowns. He discusses the impact of air traffic controller shortages leading to mass cancellations. Atwater also delves into the K-shaped economy, exploring how it highlights growing inequalities in post-pandemic America, with some thriving while many struggle. His analysis reveals how conventional metrics like GDP overlook the financial hardships faced by lower-income households.
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Flight Cuts From Controller Shortages
- The FAA ordered airlines to cut flights at 40 busy airports to ease strain from controllers working without pay.
- That reduction aims to manage fatigue and safety risks as controllers face unpaid work during the shutdown.
Controllers Describe Growing Fatigue
- Nick Daniels says fatigue and financial stress are eroding safety for air traffic controllers.
- He reports controllers worry about childcare, gas, groceries and some have taken second jobs to pay bills.
K Shape Linked To Diverging Confidence
- Peter Atwater traces the K-shaped economy to diverging confidence between white-collar and blue-collar workers during COVID.
- He argues confidence differences predict bifurcating economic paths for affluent versus vulnerable groups.
