Over 9,000 flights were delayed or canceled across the U.S. on Monday and Tuesday due to a staffing shortage of air traffic controllers caused by the ongoing partial government shutdown, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The shutdown, which began on October 1, resulted from a failure by Democrats and Republicans to reach a spending agreement. Although air traffic controllers are deemed essential and must work without pay, back pay is guaranteed.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed an increase in controller sick calls since the shutdown started. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) emphasized the need to address the controller staffing shortage and improve hiring and training efforts to prevent further disruptions. Airports in Denver, Newark, and Burbank were particularly affected.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed an increase in controller sick calls since the shutdown started. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) emphasized the need to address the controller staffing shortage and improve hiring and training efforts to prevent further disruptions. Airports in Denver, Newark, and Burbank were particularly affected.
