🔗 Share this article US Airport Disruption Worsens as Workforce Gaps Escalate During Government Shutdown Travelers across the United States are preparing for increasing disruptions as workforce gaps at airports continue to worsen during the ongoing federal government shutdown, now reaching its seventh consecutive day. Escalating Worries Over Air Travel Network Union representatives for air traffic controllers and TSA agents have cautioned that the circumstances is expected to worsen, with workforce issues documented at several major airports including facilities in Nashville, Boston, Dallas, Chicago and Philadelphia. "The potential of broader effects to the US aviation system is growing by the day," commented travel industry analyst Henry Harteveldt. He expressed grave concern that if the shutdown continues, it could possibly interfere with millions of Americans' holiday travel arrangements in November. Travel Disruptions and Operational Challenges Staffing shortages, including an elevated number of employees calling in sick, affected major airports around New York, Los Angeles and Denver on Monday, resulting in delays for over 6,000 flights across the country. 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 workforce challenges O'Hare Airport in Chicago recorded average delays of 41 minutes Dallas-Fort Worth experienced postponements recorded at half an hour Industry Response and Labor Stance The National Air Traffic Controllers Association emphasized that it does not support any coordinated activities that could negatively affect the National Airspace System. The union clarified that air traffic controllers take their responsibility to protect public safety extremely earnestly and participating in any work stoppage could result in termination of employment. Government Perspective Transportation Secretary the transportation official alerted that the country's air traffic control system is being harmed from the ongoing government shutdown. "They're not just thinking about the flight paths," he remarked regarding flight controllers who are not receiving salaries. "They're thinking about, 'Am I going to get a paycheck'?" He observed that many operators depend on regular income and are unable to manage extended periods without payment. Wider Consequences According to emergency preparations, approximately a quarter of the employees, or over eleven thousand FAA employees, were furloughed when the shutdown began last week. However, thirteen thousand flight controllers remain on duty, with hiring and training also ongoing. Labor leader Nick Daniels indicated that the shutdown has highlighted preexisting issues encountered by air traffic controllers, including staff shortages and aging technology. He explained that the situation is especially serious at regional facilities where reduced personnel creates additional challenges. Despite the extensive postponements, aviation analytics indicated that approximately 92% of departures from American airports departed as scheduled as of Tuesday afternoon. The aviation regulator had not activated a "workforce threshold" that would decrease the flight volume in and out of airports, suggesting that operations were proceeding despite the challenges.