🔗 Share this article American Airport Disruption Deepens as Staffing Shortages Escalate During Federal Closure Travelers across the United States are preparing for increasing delays as airport staffing shortages continue to worsen during the current federal government shutdown, now entering its seventh day. Escalating Worries Over Aviation System Union representatives for flight controllers and TSA agents have cautioned that the circumstances is likely to deteriorate, with staffing challenges documented at several major airports including facilities in Nashville, Boston, Dallas, Chicago and Philadelphia. "The potential of broader effects to the American air travel network continues to increase by the day," stated travel industry analyst Henry Harteveldt. He expressed grave concern that if the shutdown continues, it could potentially disrupt millions of Americans' holiday travel arrangements in November. Flight Delays and Operational Challenges Workforce gaps, including an increased rate of employees calling in sick, affected key facilities around Denver, Los Angeles and New York on Monday, resulting in postponements affecting more than 6,000 flights nationwide. The Burbank facility's flight control was briefly shut down and responsibilities were managed by a different location The Nashville facility experienced postponements averaging 120 minutes due to workforce challenges O'Hare Airport in Chicago recorded average delays of 41 minutes The DFW airport experienced delays logged at 30 minutes Industry Response and Labor Stance The primary air traffic controllers union stressed that it does not endorse any organized actions that could adversely impact the national flight network. The organization clarified that air traffic controllers value their duty to protect public safety very seriously and engaging in any job action could result in removal from federal service. Official Viewpoint Transportation Secretary the transportation official warned that the country's air traffic control system is being harmed from the continuing federal closure. "They're not just thinking about the flight paths," he commented regarding flight controllers who are not receiving salaries. "They're concerned about, 'Am I going to get a salary'?" The official observed that many operators depend on regular income and are unable to manage extended periods without payment. Wider Consequences Based on emergency preparations, approximately 25% of the workforce, or more than 11,000 FAA employees, were temporarily laid off when the closure started last week. However, 13,000 air traffic controllers continue working, with hiring and training continuing as well. Union president Nick Daniels pointed out that the shutdown has highlighted preexisting issues encountered by air traffic controllers, including staff shortages and aging technology. He clarified that the circumstances is particularly grave at regional facilities where reduced personnel creates further difficulties. Despite the widespread delays, flight data showed that approximately 92% of departures from American airports departed as scheduled as of Tuesday afternoon. The Federal Aviation Administration had not issued a "workforce threshold" that would reduce the number of flights in and out of airports, indicating that activities were continuing despite the challenges.