US Flights Delayed Amid ATC Shortages as Shutdown Impacts Thanksgiving Travel
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that nearly half of the busiest US airports experienced air traffic controller shortages, leading to widespread flight delays nationwide due to the ongoing government shutdown. These shortages were particularly acute on Friday, with some airports experiencing delays of an hour or more and a significant number of flight cancellations. The shutdown, which has left air traffic controllers and other essential personnel working without pay, has resulted in immense stress and fatigue, further exacerbating existing staffing issues and posing a threat to aviation safety. Airlines and other organizations have urged Congress to pass a stopgap funding bill to end the shutdown and mitigate these disruptions.
John Q. Hosedrinker