As the longest government shutdown in U.S. history stretches into its sixth week, thousands of federal employees have been furloughed while others are still forced to work without pay. Travelers are also feeling the effects of this shutdown, with long airport wait times and widespread flight cancellations caused by severe understaffing.

Now, there's finally a light at the end of the tunnel, as a deal to reopen the government could happen soon. However, experts warn that the air travel industry won't recover overnight. In fact, it may take years for operations to return to normal . Here's why.

Flights Canceled Under FAA Order Can’t Be Quickly Restored After The Shutdown Ends

Delta Air Lines passengers check in at the ticket counter at Louis Armstrong International Airport

The Federal

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