This weekend, major airports across the country faced significant flight delays due to ongoing staffing issues with air traffic controllers.
On Sunday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented a temporary ground standstill order due to personnel shortages at air traffic facilities in Southern California.
The stop began around 11:42 a.m. EDT for flights to Los Angeles International Airport, although it was lifted by 1:30 p.m. (ET).
This situation arose shortly after Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy mentioned on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures” that air traffic controllers are under considerable stress, particularly in light of the nearly four-week government shutdown.
Duffy cautioned travelers to be prepared for more delays throughout the week. He stated at a news conference on Thursday that there was “no guarantee” that flights would remain delay-free or unaffected by cancellations.
“The controllers are starting to feel the strain,” he noted on Sunday. “Many are taking on second jobs, considering options like driving for Uber just to make ends meet.”
“What I’ve told the controllers is, ‘Recognize this is your job. Ultimately, you’ll be compensated. But they are facing real challenges, not just themselves but their families as well,'” Duffy added.
He mentioned that there were 22 staffing-related issues reported at various airports nationwide on Saturday, marking the highest level during the current closure. Air traffic controllers are currently working without pay due to a lack of funding.
Earlier this month, Duffy shared that the rate of flight delays attributed to staffing problems skyrocketed from the typical 5 percent to 53 percent during the shutdown.
Additionally, staffing shortages have led to disruptions at Newark Liberty International Airport, Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, and Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers, according to the FAA.
Moreover, traffic to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport has also been affected by these staffing delays.
