Four of the nation’s largest airlines are pressing Senate Democrats to pass a clean stopgap spending bill to reopen the government amidst growing delays at airports around the country caused by staffing issues linked to the expiration of government funding a month ago.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby told reporters Thursday “it is time to pass a clean CR,” sending a blunt message to holdout Democratic senators.

American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines are also pressing Democrats to relent and pass a House-approved bill to fund the government through Nov. 21.

Kirby noted that federal agencies have been shuttered for a month, forcing air traffic controllers to work without getting paid.

Kirby warned after a meeting with Vice President Vance that the shutdown is hurting t

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