The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has caused severe disruption across the nation’s air transportation system, leading to thousands of flight cancellations and delays as critical air traffic control operations face staffing shortages and temporary suspensions.
According to Reuters , over 3,800 flights were either cancelled or delayed nationwide as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) struggled to maintain normal operations. The shutdown, now entering its second week, has forced many air traffic controllers and safety inspectors to work without pay or take unpaid leave, worsening an already strained system.
CNN reported that major airports including Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas-Fort Worth, and New York’s LaGuardia saw the highest levels of disruption, with passengers stranded for hours amid growing frustration. Airline representatives described the situation as “the worst operational crisis since the pandemic.”
The Washington Post noted that several airlines, including Delta, United, and American Airlines, issued public apologies and offered waivers to affected passengers. Industry analysts warn that prolonged shutdown impacts could cost airlines hundreds of millions of dollars and further damage consumer confidence during the holiday travel season.
NBC News added that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is also affected, with longer security lines reported across major airports due to reduced staffing. Aviation unions have urged Congress to resolve the funding impasse immediately, citing rising safety risks.
Sources
Reuters — “Thousands of Flights Cancelled or Delayed as Shutdown Hits FAA,”
CNN — “Travel Chaos as Government Shutdown Disrupts Air Traffic Control,”
The Washington Post — “Airlines, Passengers Reel From FAA Disruptions Amid Funding Crisis,”
NBC News — “TSA and FAA Struggle to Operate Amid Federal Shutdown,”
