U.S. Air Travel Disrupted as Government Shutdown Deepens Air Traffic Control Crisis

Major air travel disruptions swept across the United States on Saturday as severe air traffic control staffing shortages, fueled by the ongoing government shutdown, delayed and canceled thousands of flights nationwide. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that 42 airport towers and control centers were affected, impacting flights in major cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, Newark, San Francisco, and New York.

According to flight-tracking data, approximately 1,500 flights were canceled and more than 6,000 delayed, worsening travel chaos that began Friday. Airlines reported difficulties planning operations amid multiple FAA delay programs, raising concerns about the system’s stability if staffing continues to deteriorate.

The FAA has ordered airlines to reduce flights by 4% at 40 major airports, citing safety concerns from the shortage of controllers. These flight cuts are set to increase to 6% on Tuesday and 10% by November 14. The shutdown, now in its 39th day, has left thousands of federal employees, including 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 security screeners, working without pay, leading to widespread absenteeism.

On Saturday, the FAA imposed ground delay programs at nine major airports, with average delays exceeding four hours at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that reductions could climb to 20% if more controllers fail to report for duty.

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford revealed that between 20% and 40% of controllers have been absent in recent days. Meanwhile, over 500 safety reports have been filed by pilots citing controller fatigue and mistakes.

Although Senate leaders reported progress in negotiations to end the shutdown, no agreement was reached as of Saturday night. Lawmakers are expected to resume talks Sunday amid mounting pressure from airlines and travelers alike.