The Essential Air Service (EAS), a U.S. government program designed to ensure commercial air connectivity for nearly 200 small and rural communities, has been facing growing uncertainty as the federal shutdown extends into its second week. The program, established to subsidize unprofitable routes that keep remote regions linked to major hubs, has become a lifeline for residents who rely on air travel for work, healthcare, and essential goods. Now, with funding halted and air travel already strained by widespread TSA staff shortages , the continuity of these crucial air links is at risk.

“Every state across the country will be impacted,” Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy had said Monday, according to Reuters . “We don’t have the money for that program moving forward.”

Subsequently,

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