The shortage stems from air traffic controllers calling in sick as uncertainty about their next paycheck continues|qwesy qwesy|CC BY 3.0
Air traffic control shortages are disrupting flights across major US airports as the government shutdown enters its seventh day. Over 9,000 US flights were delayed from Monday through Tuesday.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) warned that Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport will lack sufficient controllers for nine hours Tuesday night, with delays averaging 41 minutes.
In Nashville, controllers’ absences forced a five-hour closure of the approach facility, delaying flights by up to two hours. Houston, Newark, Las Vegas, Boston, and Dallas airports also face staffing gaps.
The shortage stems from controllers calling in sick as uncertainty exists about their next paychecks. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the stress and fatigue are worsening the crisis.
Meanwhile, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association pointed to the understaffing issues, warning that even small absences can cause widespread disruption.
The FAA has only 10,800 controllers instead of 14,633 required, says the union.