(NEXSTAR) – The ongoing federal government shutdown that started on October 1 is beginning to disrupt air travel, as noted by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. Air traffic controllers are working without pay, leading to increasing delays at several major airports, and smaller regional airports face potential closure by the end of the week.
The funding for the Essential Air Service Program, which helps maintain air service in small communities throughout the U.S., is likely to run out soon.
“That money is going to run out this Sunday, so there are many small communities that will struggle to maintain reliable air service,” Duffy stated.
This program typically provides subsidies to airlines for making two daily round trips in smaller planes, usually seating between 30 to 50 passengers. These flights connect remote regional airports with larger airport hubs, helping residents access services and resources that may not be available locally.
As of fall 2024, the program served 65 communities in Alaska and 112 communities in the continental U.S., along with Hawaii and Puerto Rico, which “might otherwise lack scheduled air service,” according to the Department of Transportation.
Duffy emphasized that the program has significant bipartisan backing and is vital for many small communities, particularly in Alaska, where air travel is often the only option for reaching other areas.
As the government shutdown proceeds into its second week, travelers at major airports are beginning to feel the consequences.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported staffing shortages at airports in cities like Nashville, Boston, Dallas, Chicago, and Philadelphia, alongside air traffic control centers in Atlanta, Houston, and the Dallas-Fort Worth area. This resulted in temporary flight delays to the first three cities mentioned.
As the shutdown continues and payday passes without pay, staffing issues might become more pressing, with workers possibly calling in sick due to unpaid wages. Duffy noted on Monday that the number of sick calls is already increasing, especially among air traffic controllers. If there aren’t enough controllers available, the FAA would have to limit takeoff and landing operations to ensure safety, leading to more flight delays and cancellations.
This kind of situation unfolded on Monday afternoon when the control tower at Hollywood Burbank Airport in Southern California was shut down for several hours, resulting in delays that averaged about 2.5 hours.
