Originally Posted by rickair7777

Problem is, that some will resent working for free and call in sick, especially if it drags on.

Also while ATC can typically float their expenses for a month or two, the TSA Gangsterz are far more likely to live hand to mouth like any other rank-and-file Americans. Last time this dragged out, many of them had to just quit and get other jobs.

I would expect staffing to drop a bit on day one, and then to gradually decline over time. For TSA, their throughput is probably linear with staffing. But the ATC impact, if it gets bad enough, can trigger airline meltdowns or mass cancellations to prevent same.

Also Mayor Pete said that ATC training would stop, so if it drags out, any retirees won't be replaced.

Mitigating factor right now is that it's supposed to be the travel slow season? Although it didn't look very slow at the airports I've seen this week.