WASHINGTON — The U.S. government shutdown has reached a critical milestone — the longest in history — as the impasse between Republicans and Democrats pushed into its 36th day on Wednesday.

It is unclear how long the shutdown will last as federal workers miss another paycheque heading into a busy holiday season at American airports.

Media outlet CNN reported that last weekend saw the worst air traffic controller shortages since the shutdown began Oct. 1.

Pictures shared on social media show massive lines at airports, and flight delays and cancellations are piling up. Houston’s Bush Intercontinental Airport warned passengers Sunday it could take three hours to get through security checkpoints because of staffing issues.

Even though many Canadians have been avoiding travel to the United

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