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U.S. Air Travel Disrupted by Staffing Shortages Amidst Government Shutdown

Controllers working without pay are calling in sick, leading to staffing shortages at airports across the country. Air travelers should expect delays.

This is airplane.
This is airplane.

U.S. Air Travel Disrupted by Staffing Shortages Amidst Government Shutdown

Air travel in the United States faced significant disruptions on Tuesday due to staffing shortages at air traffic control facilities and towers. Burbank Airport in Los Angeles was forced to close its air traffic tower, while Chicago O'Hare Airport experienced flight delays due to a lack of controllers.

The ongoing government shutdown has exacerbated the situation. Controllers, deemed essential workers, are required to work without pay, leading some to call in sick. This has resulted in at least eight airports around the country, including Chicago O'Hare, facing staffing shortages. American Airlines and United Airlines contributed to additional flight delays at O'Hare due to these shortages.

Earlier in the day, the FAA reported average departure delays of 41 minutes to Chicago O'Hare due to other delays within 1,200 nautical miles. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed concern about controllers' focus on safety amidst these financial stressors.

The government shutdown has led to significant flight delays and disruptions at major airports across the country. With controllers working without pay, staffing shortages are expected to continue until the shutdown ends. Air travelers are advised to check their flight status and expect potential delays.

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