🔗 Share this article

Travelers throughout America are preparing for growing delays as airport staffing shortages further deteriorate during the ongoing government closure, now reaching its seventh day.

Escalating Worries Over Air Travel Network

Union representatives for air traffic controllers and security screeners have cautioned that the situation is likely to deteriorate, with workforce issues documented at several major airports including facilities in Nashville, Boston, Dallas, Chicago and Philadelphia.

"The potential of broader effects to the American air travel network is growing by the day," stated aviation expert Henry Harteveldt.

He voiced serious worry that if the shutdown continues, it could possibly interfere with millions of Americans' Thanksgiving travel plans in November.

Travel Disruptions and Operational Challenges

Workforce gaps, featuring an increased rate of workers taking sick leave, affected key facilities around New York, Los Angeles and Denver on Monday, causing postponements affecting more than 6,000 flights across the country.

• Burbank airport's flight control was temporarily closed and responsibilities were managed by another facility
• The Nashville facility experienced postponements averaging 120 minutes due to staffing issues
• Chicago's O'Hare recorded typical postponements of nearly three-quarters of an hour
• The DFW airport had postponements recorded at half an hour

Sector Reaction and Union Position

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association stressed that it does not endorse any organized actions that could negatively affect the National Airspace System.

The organization stated that flight controllers take their responsibility to protect public safety very seriously and engaging in any work stoppage could lead to removal from federal service.

Official Viewpoint

The Transportation Department head Sean Duffy warned that the country's air traffic control system is being harmed from the continuing federal closure.

"They're not just thinking about the flight paths," he remarked regarding flight controllers who are working without pay. "They're concerned about, 'Am I going to get a salary'?"

He noted that many operators live paycheck to paycheck and are unable to manage extended periods without payment.

Broader Implications

According to emergency preparations, approximately a quarter of the workforce, or over eleven thousand aviation administration workers, were furloughed when the shutdown began last week.

However, thirteen thousand flight controllers remain on duty, with recruitment and instruction also ongoing.

Labor leader Nick Daniels pointed out that the shutdown has emphasized preexisting issues faced by flight controllers, including staff shortages and outdated equipment.

He explained that the circumstances is particularly grave at regional facilities where reduced personnel creates further difficulties.

Despite the extensive postponements, flight data indicated that approximately ninety-two percent of flights departing from US airports departed as scheduled as of Tuesday afternoon.

The Federal Aviation Administration had not activated a "staffing trigger" that would reduce the number of flights in and out of airports, indicating that operations were continuing despite the difficulties.