Major U.S. Airports Hit by Delays as Air Traffic Control Staffing Crisis Worsens

Travelers at major U.S. airports are facing a second day of widespread disruptions as staffing shortfalls at air traffic control (ATC) facilities continue to ripple through the system.

What’s happening

• According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) data, the agency triggered 22 staff‑shortage “alerts” on one recent day alone, marking one of the highest levels seen during the current government shutdown. Reuters
• Flight‑tracking services report more than 5,900 flight delays by early evening on one day, with the number climbing as the backlog deepens. Reuters
• Long‑standing ATC staffing deficits were already a concern—more than 3,500 controllers are reportedly short of the FAA’s targeted numbers. The shutdown has added financial pressure, with many working without pay. Reuters
• Airport‑specific hotspots include major hubs such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), each seeing operational pressure related to controller absences. AP News

Why it matters

When ATC staffing drops, the FAA often must implement ground‑holds or slower traffic spacing to preserve safety. That means fewer flights per hour, longer wait times, and cascading delays across the network. Even if flights depart on time, connecting passengers can get hit hard.
Safety officials maintain that safety is not being compromised, but the increased delays signal the fragility of the system under stress. CBS News

What travelers should know

• If you’re flying in the near term, expect delays and give yourself extra time for connections. Airport websites and flight‑tracking tools like FlightAware can help monitor disruptions. FlightAware
• Some of the issues are driven by controllers calling in sick or using leave, rather than an official strike—which remains illegal. Many workers are doing overtime and working without pay because of the shutdown. metrophiladelphia.com

What’s next

With the holiday travel season approaching, the system could be stretched further. Unless staffing issues are addressed, delays may become more routine—not just isolated incidents. Federal and union officials are watching the situation closely.

Key Links for Further Reading

• Flights to Los Angeles International Airport halted due to air traffic controller shortage (AP News) AP News
• FAA says US air traffic control staffing issues cause more flight delays (Reuters) Reuters
• If you’re flying during the government shutdown, you’re 10 times more likely to be delayed by staff shortages than normal (Business Insider) Business Insider
• Map Shows Airports Worst Hit by Delays As Staffing Warnings Issued (Newsweek) Newsweek

Get Live Updates in Your Feed