WASHINGTON – As the impasse between Republicans and Democrats pushed into its 36th day on Wednesday, one expert warned that the U.S. government shutdown — now the longest in the nation’s history — could upset some Canadians’ travel plans.

It’s not clear how long the shutdown will last as federal workers miss another paycheque and as Americans face the prospect of a busy holiday season at airports coupled with a shortage of air traffic controllers and airport staff.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced that air traffic capacity will be reduced by 10 per cent across 40 “high-volume” markets beginning Friday morning, to ensure safety during the government shutdown.

Duffy and Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Bryan Bedford said they will meet later Wednesday with airlin

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