Air travel is bracing for disruptions as Congress races against tonight's federal funding deadline to avert a shutdown.

Why it matters: The U.S. Travel Association told Congressional leaders in a letter sent last Thursday that a shutdown would cost the U.S. economy $1 billion per week and affect millions of travelers.

State of play: Flights will continue operating as normal, but staff shortages could lead to delays or cancellations. • In a shutdown, more than 13,000 air traffic controllers would have to work without pay, per the Department of Transportation's plan. • Roughly 3,500 aviation professionals who provide critical safety and operational support would also be furloughed.

Flashback: The 2019 shutdown offers a glimpse of the potential disruptions ahead — although the holiday

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