Staffing shortages at U.S. airports have led to significant flight delays this week, correlating with the ongoing government shutdown. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy had previously warned that the shutdown could affect flight operations.
Impact of Government Shutdown on Airport Staffing
Recent advisories from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) highlighted particular challenges. At Hollywood Burbank Airport in California, there were reports of no air traffic controllers available, which directly contributed to delays.
Delays Across Major Airports
Other airports, including Newark, Phoenix, and Denver, also experienced similar staffing-related delays. The situation is concerning as the volume of air traffic is typically high during this season.
Flight Delay Statistics
- On Monday, over 6,000 flights were delayed across the United States.
- It remains unclear how many delays were due to staffing shortages, as weather and traffic volume also play a role.
- The Thursday before the government shutdown witnessed nearly 7,000 flight delays.
In summary, the combination of a government shutdown and staffing shortages poses significant challenges for airport operations, leading to widespread flight delays across various cities. Travelers are advised to stay informed about potential disruptions and check with their airlines for updates.
