Flight delays have been reported across the country for a second consecutive day on Tuesday, as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prepares for further airport staffing shortages stemming from the ongoing government shutdown. Major airports in cities including Boston, Philadelphia, Nashville, Houston, Chicago, and Las Vegas experienced significant delays due to a shortage of air traffic controllers, as indicated by the FAA.
These delays follow earlier slowdowns reported at airports in Denver, Phoenix, Burbank, California, and Newark, New Jersey, during the initial 24 hours after air traffic controllers began working without pay due to the shutdown. The situation has raised concerns among travelers as the number of domestic and international flight delays has surged dramatically.
In light of the ongoing crisis, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) issued a reminder to its members, stating it does not endorse or support any coordinated activities that could jeopardize flight safety or lead to further delays. Engaging in any form of job action could result in removal from federal service, the union cautioned on its website. Such actions are not only illegal but also undermine NATCA’s credibility and hinder its advocacy efforts for its members and their families.
Despite the challenges, the FAA has not yet implemented a staffing trigger that would limit the number of flights at airports lacking sufficient controllers to manage air traffic safely. However, flight tracker website FlightAware reported over 6,000 delays on Monday, a significant increase from approximately 3,000 delays on Saturday. As of Tuesday morning, there were just over 1,000 delays affecting flights within, into, or out of the U.S.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted the situation at Newark International Airport, noting a slight uptick in sick calls since the government shutdown began. "Our priorities are safety," Duffy emphasized. He acknowledged the added stress on air traffic controllers during this challenging period, stating, "Now what they think about as they’re controlling our airspace is, ‘How am I going to pay my mortgage? How do I make my car payment?’”
NATCA President Nick Daniels echoed Duffy’s sentiments, calling for an end to the government shutdown. "We do not have the luxury of time," he said, urging for immediate action to resolve the situation. "Our message is clear: end the shutdown." As the Senate failed to pass legislation to reopen the government on Monday night, the prospect of a resolution between Democrats and Republicans appears uncertain.
Representatives from various airports, including Newark Liberty International Airport and Denver International Airport, have not commented on the delays. However, Hollywood Burbank Airport confirmed that it remains open and operational, advising passengers to check with their airlines for updates on potential delays or cancellations. Similarly, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport stated that it does not foresee major operational impacts in the short term, as most essential workers continue to work without pay. Passengers are encouraged to confirm their flight status and arrive early, especially during the busy fall break period.
