As the government shutdown continues into its second month, U.S. airports are experiencing significant flight delays due to air traffic controller shortages. Newark Airport in New Jersey is among the worst affected, with delays reported to be as long as three hours.
The New York City Emergency Management office alerted travelers on social media that delays at Newark are likely to affect flight schedules at other regional airports as well. Passengers flying to, from, or through New York are urged to check flight statuses and prepare for potential schedule changes and long waits.
According to FlightAware, other major airports such as George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, and Chicago O’Hare have also reported numerous delays and cancellations. Significant disruptions are noted in airports across San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, and Miami.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has repeatedly warned about increasing flight disruptions if air traffic controllers continue to work without pay. We work overtime to make sure the system is safe. And we will slow traffic down, you’ll see delays, we’ll have flights canceled to make sure the system is safe, Duffy stated during an appearance on CBS’s “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan” on Sunday.
While he clarified that controllers who do not show up for work won't be dismissed, the stress of financial insecurity is palpable. They need support, they need money, they need a paycheck, Duffy asserted, highlighting the human side of the ongoing crisis.
Before the shutdown, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was already grappling with a shortage of about 3,000 air traffic controllers. Reports indicate that as many as 13,000 controllers are currently working without pay, creating additional strain on the air traffic management system.
Despite the ongoing staffing challenges, aviation analytics firm Cirium noted that overall on-time performance at most major U.S. airports remained strong in October before the shutdown took effect. However, the current ripple effect of staffing shortages threatens to lead to further extensive disruptions if the situation isn't resolved soon.
