Table of Contents
- Travel Disruptions Spread Nationwide
- Controllers Working Without Pay
- Union Breaks Ranks, Backs GOP Shutdown Fix
- Major Airports Grind to a Halt
- What Travelers Should Do Now
- Sources
Travel Disruptions Spread Nationwide
Air travelers across the U.S. faced mounting delays and cancellations Friday evening as a government shutdown-triggered staffing crisis hit air traffic control facilities hard. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed understaffing at 35 critical sites—including major hubs and en route centers—just days after controllers missed their first full paycheck.
Controllers Working Without Pay
Despite being deemed “essential” personnel, air traffic controllers are now working without compensation due to the ongoing federal shutdown. While the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) previously downplayed the impact of missed paychecks, the union reversed course Friday, acknowledging the growing strain on its members.
Union Urges Immediate Action
In a surprising move, NATCA President Paul Rinaldi called on Congress to pass a continuing resolution to reopen the government—effectively aligning with House Republicans’ proposed path forward. “Our members are professionals, but they’re also human,” Rinaldi said. “No one should be expected to manage the safety of millions while wondering how they’ll pay rent.”
Union Breaks Ranks, Backs GOP Shutdown Fix
The union’s endorsement of the Republican-backed continuing resolution marks a rare political stance. Typically nonpartisan, NATCA’s shift signals deep frustration with the impasse in Washington—and growing concern that prolonged shutdowns could compromise aviation safety.
Major Airports Grind to a Halt
By Friday night, delays cascaded across the country. The FAA reported significant disruptions at airports serving:
- New York City (JFK, LaGuardia, Newark)
- Boston (Logan)
- Dallas/Fort Worth
- Houston (IAH)
- Phoenix (Sky Harbor)
- San Francisco
- Washington, D.C. (Dulles and Reagan)
At LaGuardia and JFK, average arrival delays exceeded two hours. En route centers—critical for managing high-altitude traffic between cities—also reported staffing shortfalls, slowing flights nationwide even at airports not directly affected.
What Travelers Should Do Now
If you’re flying this weekend:
- Check flight status hourly—delays are changing rapidly
- Arrive at the airport 3+ hours early for domestic flights
- Consider rebooking through less-impacted hubs (e.g., Denver, Atlanta)
- Monitor FAA and airline alerts via apps
Experts warn the situation could worsen if the shutdown extends into next week. With no end in sight to budget negotiations, travelers are bracing for a prolonged period of uncertainty.
Sources
The New York Times: Staff Shortages at 35 Air Traffic Control Sites Disrupt Travel
