Travelers in Southwest Florida eagerly awaited a vote in the House on a funding bill to end the 43-day government shutdown. The bill, which aimed to extend most agency funding through January 30, had already been approved by the Senate on Monday, with the White House confirming that President Trump would sign it once passed.
The shutdown caused significant disruptions, particularly at airports like Southwest Florida International, leading to numerous flight cancellations and affecting local travelers. According to the FAA, 40 of the busiest airlines cut thousands of flights nationwide.
Steve Shaefer, a Fort Myers local, expressed his frustration with the situation.
“It’s hurting people like this that aren’t getting paid, you know, and all government employees that ain’t getting paid. It’s a shame,” said Shaefer.
Jarrett Brown, a flyer at Southwest Florida International Airport, shared his hopes for his upcoming flight.
“Hoping third time is a charm. We have, I have a flight booked from Tampa to DFW. I’m just hoping that this time there’s no delays or cancellations or anything I have to worry about,” said Brown.
Federal employees, flyers, and others remained hopeful that the vote would finally bring an end to the shutdown.