Flight delays rippled through airports nationwide for a third consecutive day on Wednesday as the government shutdown continued to strain the nation’s air traffic system. The Federal Aviation Administration reported staffing shortages at multiple hubs, forcing reductions in flight operations and increasing wait times for travelers.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport was among the hardest hit, with shortages of air traffic controllers disrupting schedules. The FAA also ordered reductions in flights at Orlando International Airport in Florida and Newark Liberty International Airport, one of the major New York City–area hubs. Staffing problems began on Monday when controllers were required to work without pay as the shutdown took effect.
Over the past 48 hours, delays linked to staffing levels have also been reported at major airports, including Boston, Burbank, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Nashville, Philadelphia, and Phoenix. When staffing falls below safe operating levels, the FAA reduces the number of flights to ensure air traffic can be managed securely.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said this week that there has been a slight increase in sick calls among air traffic controllers since the shutdown began. Unions have warned workers against organized job actions, noting that such efforts could lead to disciplinary measures.
Compounding the disruptions, some weather systems on the East Coast have added to delays. Nashville International Airport experienced average delays of around two hours Tuesday evening, according to FAA data. With additional rain expected over the weekend, further impacts are possible.
The shutdown has also limited the FAA’s ability to communicate with the public, with the agency stating that only critical safety messaging will continue during the funding lapse. Meanwhile, a draft White House memo indicates that furloughed federal employees may not be guaranteed back pay once the shutdown ends, further deepening uncertainty among the federal workforce that operates the air traffic system.
Source: CNBC