Major U.S. Airports Face Ongoing Flight Delays Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown: What Travelers Need to Know

Traveling soon? Be prepared for potential delays and cancellations at U.S. airports. As the government shutdown drags on, staffing issues are becoming more prominent.

Kris Van Cleave from CBS News shared insights from Los Angeles International Airport, noting that many flights are scheduled for the Columbus Day weekend. The Federal Aviation Administration reports about 52,000 flights on the horizon, but staffing problems are causing worries. TSA officers and air traffic controllers are essential workers during the shutdown, yet they are working without immediate pay, which has led to an increase in sick calls.

Typically, air traffic controller shortages cause about 5% of flight delays. Today, that number has skyrocketed to 53%, according to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. “It’s not a coordinated sick-out, but the number of sick calls is higher than usual,” Van Cleave explained. This increases the chance of delays, especially in the afternoons and evenings.

Take Nashville International Airport as an example. On a recent Thursday, 40,000 passengers faced disruptions due to a shortage of controllers. Most controllers are still on the job, but some have had to take sick leave.

Van Cleave also highlighted that the National Air Traffic Controllers Association does not support actions that jeopardize air safety. They encourage their members to continue working through these challenging times. The union stated, “At this critical juncture, it’s crucial to maintain our high level of public service.”

While the overall impact on flights has been manageable, ongoing issues could lead to more delays. Current reports indicate that delays due to controller shortages are increasing, though many flights still depart on time.

In light of these circumstances, it’s essential to stay informed and be patient as you navigate your travels during this challenging period.



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Transportation Security Administration, Government Shutdown