According to reporter Dan Williams, thousands of flights have been delayed at multiple airports across the country amid a critical shortage of air traffic controllers working without pay.
As the U.S. federal government shutdown drags on, controllers must continue on the job despite missing paychecks. This staffing squeeze is forcing towers and radar centers to juggle fewer hands, leading to longer takeoff waits, slower landings, and mounting backlogs in the national airspace.
At major hubs from coast to coast, airlines are scrambling to adjust schedules while frustrated travelers grapple with extended tarmac holds and crowded terminals. Business travelers worry about missed meetings, and leisure passengers face disrupted itineraries.
Industry observers warn that if the shutdown continues, these delays could cascade through cargo lanes, international connections, and private flights—impacting supply chains and global mobility. For digital nomads and event-goers alike, the current slowdown is a stark reminder of how quickly airport operations can stall.
Experts say returning controllers to paid status is the fastest way to clear the backlog. Until then, travelers are advised to monitor flight status, allow extra time at busy airports, and stay flexible as the aviation sector navigates this unprecedented challenge.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
