The U.S. federal government shutdown, which is now in its 27th day, is still causing problems for air travel. On Monday, more than 1,400 flights were delayed across the country, following an incredible 8,600 delayed flights reported on Sunday. The main reason for these problems is that there aren’t enough air traffic controllers. Many of them are working without pay, and some are calling in sick because they can’t afford to work.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said that important airports, like Newark Liberty International in New Jersey and several in the Southeast, were short on staff. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) also had to stop all flights on the ground for almost two hours because there weren’t enough controllers. This caused flights to be delayed by an average of 25 minutes.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy talked about the staffing crisis. He highlighted how hard it is for controllers who haven’t been paid yet because of the shutdown. Many controllers, especially younger ones, are having trouble with unpaid bills and childcare. This issue is making staffing problems worse. Consequently, some are looking for second jobs or calling in sick. The FAA has found more than 20 staffing triggers that show critical shortages. This has led to many flight cancellations and delays that are likely to continue.
Major airlines have said there have been big delays. Southwest Airlines has had delays on 45% of its flights. American Airlines has had delays on about one-third of its scheduled departures. JetBlue, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines also say that there are big delays. These are affecting thousands of passengers across the country.
This unprecedented situation of a federal shutdown without paychecks for essential air traffic personnel is concerning. The impending milestone of missed paychecks is causing travelers and airport officials to become more and more angry and frustrated. Passengers are urged to check the status of their flights before they travel. They should be ready for possible long delays or cancellations, since there is no end in sight for the problem.
