X

US airlines are reportedly preparing for domestic flight shutdown due to coronavirus

But no final decision has been made, The Wall Street Journal reports.

Sean Keane Former Senior Writer
Sean knows far too much about Marvel, DC and Star Wars, and poured this knowledge into recaps and explainers on CNET. He also worked on breaking news, with a passion for tech, video game and culture.
Expertise Culture, Video Games, Breaking News
Sean Keane
united-airlines-sfo-13

US carriers are planning for a possible shutdown, a report said.

Kent German/CNET

US airlines are getting ready for a nationwide domestic flight shutdown, due to the coronavirus outbreak drastically lowering passenger numbers and limiting staff in the air traffic control system, according to The Wall Street Journal, which cited anonymous industry and federal officials. It could be a voluntary industry initiative or government-mandated.

The carriers are planning for the eventuality as they cancel flights because of a lack of passengers, making their operations less financially viable, but no final decisions have been made, the report noted.

Air traffic controllers and the technicians who maintain their gear, are also feeling a strain because more of them are testing positive for the virus, forcing some to stay home and facilities to be closed for cleaning, the Journal reported. Either factor could force the issue, or the White House may order it in effort to halt the virus' spread. President Donald Trump has been giving daily briefings on the outbreak.

The new strain of coronavirus, which can develop into a respiratory illness known as COVID-19, was discovered in Wuhan, China, in December and has spread worldwide in the months since. As of Tuesday morning, it had infected more than 387,000 people and caused over 16,000 deaths globally. The US has more than 46,000 confirmed cases.

Neither Airlines for America (the domestic carriers' trade association), American Airlines, Delta Airlines nor United Airlines immediately responded to requests for comment.

Watch this: Coronavirus lockdown: Why social distancing saves lives

See the emptiness as coronavirus closes landmarks, stadiums, amusement parks

See all photos
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.