Over 3,000 Flights Delayed as U.S. Shutdown Bites
The U.S. government shutdown, now in its seventh day, has caused massive air travel disruptions, with more than 3,000 flights delayed nationwide due to staff shortages in air traffic control.
Major Airports Affected
Airports in Houston, Nashville, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas, and Newark have reported significant delays. At Chicago O’Hare, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reduced the number of landings per hour, leading to average delays of about 41 minutes.
Staffing Shortages
The shutdown has left many FAA employees, including air traffic controllers, working without pay. A rise in “sick calls” has worsened the crisis, with staffing levels dropping by nearly 50 percent in some facilities.
Airlines Struggle to Cope
Carriers such as Southwest Airlines and American Airlines have each delayed hundreds of flights. Airlines are attempting to reschedule arrivals and adjust flight paths to minimize disruptions, but schedules remain strained.
Outlook if Shutdown Continues
A prolonged shutdown could further cripple operations, with experts warning of increased delays and risks to system stability. The aviation industry has urged a swift resolution to restore normal staffing and ensure passenger safety.
