🔗 Share this article US Airport Disruption Worsens as Staffing Shortages Intensify During Federal Closure Passengers across the United States are bracing for growing disruptions as airport staffing shortages further deteriorate during the current federal government shutdown, now entering its seventh consecutive day. Growing Concerns Over Air Travel Network Union representatives for air traffic controllers and security screeners have cautioned that the situation is likely to deteriorate, with staffing challenges documented at several key airports including facilities in Nashville, Boston, Dallas, Chicago and Philadelphia. "The risk of broader effects to the American air travel network continues to increase by the day," stated aviation expert Henry Harteveldt. He voiced serious worry that should the closure persist, it could potentially disrupt countless American Thanksgiving travel plans in November. Travel Disruptions and Operational Challenges Staffing shortages, featuring an elevated number of employees calling in sick, impacted key facilities around New York, Los Angeles and Denver on Monday, resulting in delays for over 6,000 flights nationwide. The Burbank facility's flight control was briefly shut down and responsibilities were managed by another facility Nashville airport reported postponements averaging 120 minutes due to staffing issues Chicago's O'Hare recorded average delays of 41 minutes The DFW airport experienced postponements recorded at half an hour Sector Reaction and Union Position The National Air Traffic Controllers Association emphasized that it does not support any organized actions that could negatively affect the national flight network. The organization stated that flight controllers value their duty to ensure passenger security extremely earnestly and engaging in any work stoppage could lead to termination of employment. Official Viewpoint The Transportation Department head the transportation official alerted that the country's air traffic control system is being harmed from the ongoing government shutdown. "They aren't only thinking about the airspace," he commented regarding air traffic controllers who are not receiving salaries. "They're concerned about, 'Am I going to get a salary'?" The official noted that many operators live paycheck to paycheck and are unable to manage extended periods without compensation. Wider Consequences According to emergency preparations, roughly 25% of the workforce, or more than 11,000 FAA employees, were furloughed when the shutdown began last week. Nevertheless, 13,000 air traffic controllers remain on duty, with hiring and training also ongoing. Labor leader Nick Daniels pointed out that the closure has highlighted existing challenges encountered by air traffic controllers, including staff shortages and outdated equipment. He explained that the situation is especially serious at regional facilities where reduced personnel creates further difficulties. Despite the widespread delays, aviation analytics showed that approximately ninety-two percent of departures from American airports took off on time as of Tuesday afternoon. The aviation regulator had not issued a "staffing trigger" that would reduce the flight volume in and out of airports, indicating that activities were continuing despite the difficulties.