Government Shutdown Impacts Air Traffic Control, Causes Nationwide Delays
The ongoing federal government shutdown has caused significant disruption to air travel operations. On Monday evening, the control tower at Hollywood Burbank Airport was forced to shut down due to staffing shortages. The FAA has reported staffing issues at twelve facilities, leading to significant delays at major airports in Chicago, Nashville, Denver, and Newark.
Air traffic controllers are continuing to work without pay as the shutdown enters its second week. This has led to an increase in sick calls and operational challenges. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has warned that these disruptions could worsen if the shutdown continues. Some controllers are even considering second jobs to maintain income.
“It is normal for a few air traffic controllers to call in sick on any given day. This is the latest example of how fragile our aviation system is in the midst of a national shortage of these critical safety professionals,” said the National Air Traffic Controllers Association.
The FAA has furloughed 11,322 of its 44,829 employees. However, 13,294 controllers remain on duty without pay. Ground delays of up to 2.5 hours have been reported at affected airports.
Source: CNN