Airlines warn permanent daylight saving time could disrupt flight schedules

Airlines for America, the trade association representing major U.S. carriers, warned that ending the twice-annual daylight-saving time shift would have "considerable implications for aviation, including passenger disruption, crew and aircraft positioning, and domestic and international connectivity issues." The group said airline networks rely on stable, predictable timing and any reform would need a phased implementation to address global complexities.

The warning follows the House's passage of the Sunshine Protection Act, which would let states adopt year-round daylight saving time, sending the bill to the Senate. While the legislation faces an uncertain Senate vote, the White House has encouraged support and indicated the president would sign it if it reaches his desk.

Currently, all states except Arizona and Hawaii observe the spring-forward and fall-back schedule, though 20 states have passed measures to remain on daylight saving time permanently pending congressional approval. Public opinion polls show a majority of Americans favor making daylight saving time permanent, citing more evening daylight, while a smaller share prefers permanent standard time for earlier morning light.