Airport Delays Pick Up One Week Into Shutdown

Key Points

• U.S. airports are experiencing delays as the government shutdown enters its seventh day, with air traffic controllers working without pay.
• Staffing shortages and absenteeism among air traffic controllers are contributing to delays at major airports, and concerns are rising about missed paychecks.
• The shutdown raises uncertainty about back pay for federal employees and recalls the pivotal role air traffic controllers played in ending the 2019 shutdown.

Summary

Airport delays are worsening across the United States as the government shutdown continues into its second week, with air traffic controllers required to work without pay. Staffing shortages and rising absenteeism, particularly among air traffic controllers, have led to delays at key airports and heightened concerns about worker morale and financial stress. The situation echoes the 2019 government shutdown, during which increased sick calls from air traffic controllers played a significant role in ending the impasse.