WASHINGTON (Reuters) — Air travel chaos worsened across the United States on Monday, with more than 1,660 flights delayed nationwide and over 8,600 delays reported on Sunday, as air traffic controller absences surged amid the 27th day of the federal government shutdown.
Staffing Shortages Disrupt Major Airports
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said staffing shortages were impacting flights across the Southeast and at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.
The FAA also imposed a ground delay at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), causing average delays of about 25 minutes.
A U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) official reported that 44% of Sunday’s delays were caused by controller absences — a sharp jump from the usual 5%.
Airlines Hit Hard by the Shutdown
According to FlightAware, a flight-tracking website:
- Southwest Airlines delayed 45% (2,000) of its flights on Sunday.
- American Airlines saw nearly 1,200 flights delayed, about one-third of its total schedule.
- United Airlines reported 739 delays (24%).
- Delta Air Lines had 610 delays (17%).
The ongoing disruptions have left passengers stranded and frustrated at major hubs including Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Los Angeles.
Controllers and TSA Agents Working Without Pay
Roughly 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are currently working without pay, with both groups set to miss their first full paycheck on Tuesday.
Industry experts warn that continued stress on the aviation workforce could further slow down air traffic and increase the risk of delays and cancellations nationwide.
Political Pressure Mounts
As the shutdown drags into its 27th day, frustration is mounting among travelers and airline employees alike. Lawmakers are facing growing pressure to end the budget stalemate that has disrupted not only federal services but also critical transportation systems.
Analysts warn that if the shutdown continues, holiday and business travel could face severe challenges, further straining the aviation network.
