Air traffic controllers working without pay begin to call out sick, leading to flight cancellations and delays nationwide

Air travel has been significantly impacted by the ongoing government shutdown, with air traffic controller sick calls leading to delays and cancellations at airports across the country. As essential workers, air traffic controllers are exempt from being furloughed during the shutdown, but many are working without pay.

One of the airports most affected by the staffing shortage was California’s Burbank Airport, which had to close its tower for several hours due to a lack of air traffic controllers. Flights were delayed by over 2.5 hours on average, with controllers from a San Diego facility stepping in to handle traffic during the closure.

Several other air traffic control facilities, including the Philadelphia TRACON, Denver Center, and Phoenix Airport, also experienced staffing issues, leading to delays for hundreds of flights. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had to slow down traffic at some airports to ensure safety.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) is working with the FAA to mitigate disruptions in the national airspace. However, the staffing shortages are putting a strain on controllers, who are already dealing with a national shortage of these critical safety professionals.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed concern over the financial stress faced by controllers during the shutdown. Controllers will receive a partial paycheck on October 14, but if the shutdown continues, they will not be paid on October 28. Under the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019, they will receive back pay once the shutdown ends.

The shutdown has also impacted the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, which provides subsidies for airlines to fly to rural areas. The program is on the verge of running out of funding, which could lead to disruptions in air service to these communities. Alaska, where air travel is essential, would be particularly affected by the funding lapse.

Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska is working with the administration to find a solution to ensure that air service to rural communities is not disrupted. The situation highlights the challenges faced by air traffic controllers and the broader implications of the government shutdown on air travel.