Ahead of the busy spring travel period, it's quickly become more expensive and inconvenient to fly. With war dragging on in the Middle East, rising fuel prices are increasing costs for airlines and forcing some to steer clear of the region. Meanwhile, a partial government shutdown in the U.S. is causing long lines at busy air-travel hubs as TSA employees quit or call in sick. Host Luke Vargas speaks to aviation reporter Benjamin Katz and airlines reporter Alison Sider to consider whether there’s an end to the disruption in sight. And check out WSJ’s Take On the Week for an in-depth conversation on oil and the broader energy markets from an investor's perspective. Further Reading: Airfares Have Doubled on Some Flights. The Sticker Shock for Spring Travel Is Upon Us. European Airlines Extend Middle East Flight Suspensions Airlines Offer Glimpse Into Operations as Middle East Conflict Weighs on Fuel Prices Airline Executives Urge Congress to End Partial Government Shutdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.