The escalating US government shutdown is causing major disruptions to air travel, with significant delays reported at key New York airports as air traffic controller shortages reach critical levels.
Airport Gridlock Worsens
Major flight hubs including LaGuardia and Newark Liberty International Airport are experiencing substantial delays as the partial government shutdown enters its third week. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented ground stops and traffic management programs to cope with staffing shortages.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned that the situation could deteriorate further if the political impasse in Washington continues. "We're already seeing the consequences of this shutdown on our transportation systems," he stated.
Staffing Crisis Deepens
The disruption stems from air traffic controllers and other essential aviation staff being forced to work without pay during the shutdown. While safety-critical personnel continue working, many are facing financial hardship, leading to increased sick days and reduced staffing levels.
Key impacts include:
- Ground stops at multiple East Coast airports
- Average delays exceeding 90 minutes at LaGuardia
- Ripple effects causing nationwide disruption
- Reduced capacity in air traffic control facilities
Travel Chaos Spreads
Passengers are facing uncertainty and frustration as airlines struggle to maintain schedules. Social media platforms are flooded with images of crowded terminals and angry travellers confronting airline staff about cancelled and delayed flights.
Industry experts warn that the situation could mirror the 2019 shutdown, which caused record-breaking delays and significant economic damage to the aviation sector.
The White House and Congress remain deadlocked over funding negotiations, with no immediate resolution in sight. Aviation unions are urging politicians to reach a compromise before the situation becomes unmanageable.
