The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported significant staffing shortages at air traffic control facilities, leading to ongoing delays for travelers. Various airports, including Phoenix Sky Harbor International and Newark Liberty International, are experiencing issues due to reduced personnel during a crucial holiday period.
Impact of Staffing Shortages on Air Traffic Control
As of Friday, many FAA facilities across the country are facing understaffing challenges. Notably, Phoenix Sky Harbor’s control tower will have fewer staff on duty from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. ET, resulting in departure delays of 30 to 60 minutes. Similarly, the Albuquerque Air Route Traffic Control Center, which oversees a vast portion of the Southwestern airspace, remains under-resourced until 3 p.m. ET.
Specific Airports Affected
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport: Departure delays of 30-60 minutes.
- Newark Liberty International Airport: Staffing issues reported at both the control tower and approach control facilities.
Although not all staffing problems lead to delays, controllers may need to reroute aircraft to airspace with sufficient personnel. At times, slower flight operations are essential to ensure safe management by the reduced workforce.
Underlying Causes of Staffing Issues
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy noted that a “small fraction” of air traffic controllers have been absent due to the ongoing government shutdown. FAA personnel, classified as essential workers, must continue their duties without pay during this period.
On Thursday, the Transportation Security Administration indicated that Thursday was one of the busiest travel days in 2025, with expectations of continued congestion throughout the holiday weekend. Airlines for America warned travelers to prepare for potential delays or cancellations linked to the government shutdown.
FAA’s Commitment to Safety
The FAA has emphasized that the safety and efficiency of air travel remain contingent upon air traffic controllers reporting to work. In an internal memo, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford acknowledged the critical role that controllers play in maintaining safe flight operations.
Bedford assured that flight delays will be implemented as necessary to prioritize safety, stating, “When staffing constraints occur, we will reduce the flow of air traffic into affected airports.”
Controller Pay and Future Actions
Air traffic controllers are set to receive partial pay for hours worked prior to the government shutdown, while pending payments will be issued only after the government reopens. Duffy affirmed a strict stance against any coordinated absenteeism among controllers, stating that inappropriate actions during this time would not be tolerated.
He reiterated a commitment to uphold operational integrity and ensure that controllers prioritize their duties over political agendas. The shortage of personnel over the past years means that even minor absenteeism can have massive implications for air traffic management.
As travelers navigate through disrupted airspace, they are encouraged to remain patient during this challenging period.
