The federal government shutdown has entered its 26th day, with over 8,000 flights delayed across the United States on Sunday due to continued absenteeism of air traffic controllers, leading to travel disruptions. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that more staffing shortages are expected, resulting in increased flight delays and cancellations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued ground delay programs at major airports on Sunday.
Duffy mentioned that the FAA encountered staffing issues for air traffic controllers in 22 locations on Saturday. It is anticipated that more personnel shortages will occur in the coming days, leading to further flight delays and cancellations.
During a Fox News appearance on Sunday Morning Futures, Duffy described the situation as one of the highest numbers seen in their system since October 1st, indicating a diminishing workforce of controllers.
Approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers and around 50,000 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officials continue to work without pay during the government shutdown.
According to FlightAware, a flight tracking website, as of 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday (4 a.m. GMT on Monday), there were over 8,000 flight delays in the United States, an increase from around 5,300 delays on Saturday. Flight delay rates have consistently been higher than average since the government shutdown on October 1st.
FlightAware data reveals that Southwest Airlines had a flight delay rate of 45% on Sunday, affecting 2,000 flights; American Airlines experienced nearly 1,200 delayed flights, accounting for a third of its total flights. United Airlines had a 24% delay rate with 739 flights impacted, while Delta Air Lines had 610 delayed flights, constituting 17%.
The FAA stated that due to staffing shortages at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Washington Reagan National Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport, ground delay plans were implemented on Sunday. Los Angeles International Airport also had issued ground delay plans, which were later rescinded.
The Trump administration warned that flight disruptions could increase on Tuesday as controllers will not receive their first full paychecks due to the ongoing situation.
Two weeks ago, controllers were receiving 90% of their normal wages. However, Tuesday’s paycheck was the first full payment for their work in October.
Duffy mentioned that controllers, facing the challenge of not receiving federal pay, are seeking additional sources of income through part-time work and other means. The FAA’s air traffic controller shortfall is approximately 3,500 people below target, with many already working overtime and six days a week before the government shutdown commenced.
During the 35-day government shutdown in 2019, absenteeism among controllers and TSA officials increased due to the lack of pay, leading to extended wait times at airport security checkpoints. Authorities were forced to reduce air traffic speeds in New York and Washington.
(Reference: Reuters)