On Monday, multiple airports reported a lack of air traffic controllers as a government shutdown neared its one-week mark.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pointed out in its announcements that Hollywood Burbank Airport, Denver International Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey faced delays due to this issue.
Specifically, at Hollywood Burbank Airport, there was no air traffic controller present from 4:15 PM to 10 PM local time. At 6:44 PM, an update on Social Platform X stated, “The operation is ongoing.”
The Hill reached out to both Denver International and Newark Liberty airports for updates on flight statuses.
Air traffic controllers, being essential personnel, are required to work without pay during this closure. A similar situation occurred during the last government shutdown in January 2019, leading to increased sick days for controllers and TSA staff, which caused travel disruptions along the East Coast.
According to the Department of Transportation’s emergency response plan, more than 11,000 FAA employees, roughly a quarter of the FAA workforce, will be furloughed. However, the Trump administration stated that over 13,000 air traffic controllers would remain on the job, with ongoing recruitment and training efforts.
Transport Secretary Sean Duffy discussed the impact of the government shutdown on the air traffic control system during a news conference at Newark Airport. He noted a slight increase in controllers reporting poor health since the funding issues began last Wednesday.
“It’s not just about airspace right now,” Duffy remarked. “They’re concerned about whether they will receive a paycheck.”
The Hill also sought comments from the National Association of Air Traffic Controllers (NATCA), which represents around 20,000 individuals in the field. During a press conference with Duffy, NATCA Chairman Nick Daniels urged Congress to put an end to the government shutdown.
