Air Traffic Control Shutdown Causes Major Flight Delays Across U.S.

Washington — A government shutdown is causing significant disruptions in air travel across the United States. On Monday, a pilot preparing to take off from Hollywood Burbank Airport in California was met with an unusual response from the air traffic control tower: “The tower is closed due to staffing,” according to audio from LiveATC.net.

This incident illustrates how the ongoing shutdown is impacting air traffic controller staffing. Controllers are essential workers and are required to work during the shutdown, but they are not receiving pay. Reports indicated staffing shortages at twelve Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) facilities Monday night, with notable effects at airports including Burbank, Phoenix, and Denver.

At Burbank, the control tower completely shut down around 4:15 p.m., forcing pilots to follow procedures typically designated for smaller airports. This led to delays of more than two and a half hours during peak travel times. Denver International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport also experienced delays, with flights prohibited from taking off until sufficient controllers were available.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged an increase in controllers calling out sick since the shutdown began, explaining the mental strain controllers face when considering their unpaid status while handling flight safety. “How am I going to pay my mortgage?” Duffy quoted one controller’s concerns. Despite the challenges, he assured the public that airspace safety remains a priority.

The current shutdown marks the third major disruption in air traffic in recent years, following a similar incident between December 2018 and January 2019. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has urged for bipartisan cooperation to resolve the shutdown and prevent further effects on national security and air travel.

As a result of the current staffing issues, the FAA is monitoring controller attendance closely. Duffy indicated that any controllers who regularly fail to report for duty could face termination. “We need dedicated professionals to keep our skies safe,” he stated.

In addition to controller shortages, travelers are facing another hurdle as federal subsidies for smaller city flights are set to expire soon, exacerbating the situation in less populated areas reliant on air service.

Amid the uncertainties, airlines including Alaska Airlines and Skywest are evaluating their operations in light of the ongoing shutdown, with commitment to continue services as long as they can. Still, the airline industry is bracing for potential upheaval due to these legislative standoffs. As the shutdown lingers, experts worry about the broader implications for the air travel system and safety during this crucial time.