I don't want to get too political, but this is relevant:

It will get worse, either in the form of massive delays or reduced flights, which will result in higher prices.

I am an Air Traffic Controller for the FAA. 2 years ago, the FAA unilaterally imposed a new set of work rules upon the controllers, including pay freezes and cuts. As a result, we have seen retirements en masse. My facility will have 5 retirements this year, in just one 2-month period. In the eight years I was here before this, we averaged 1 controller retirement per year.

The controllers can make more money by drawing retirement, and possibly working elsewhere. I myself will be retiring as soon as I am eligible and taking my skills overseas where they are appreciated. The USA will soon be left with nothing but inexperienced controllers, and older controllers who resent the system and no longer go the extra mile. The system has been kept alive for many years by controllers who "make it happen". We are no longer willing to do that.

SR