Air traffic control facilities in multiple U.S. cities have faced critical staffing shortages, disrupting air travel nationwide. Denver, Phoenix, and Newark are among the hardest-hit locations, with flight delays and cancellations reported across the country.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that air traffic controllers, classified as essential workers, continue to operate without pay during the government shutdown. An estimated 13,294 controllers remain on duty, according to Department of Transportation records. California’s Burbank Airport experienced a stark example of the crisis when its tower closed from 4:15 p.m. to 10 p.m. PDT Monday due to a lack of personnel. Flights there faced average delays of over two and a half hours, with controllers from San Diego managing traffic during the outage.
A recorded transmission captured a controller informing pilots: “Clearance is closed. Ground’s closed. Local’s closed. The tower is closed due to staffing. You just contact SoCal on the 1-800 number in the green book for your clearance.” Similar staffing issues were reported at facilities including Philadelphia TRACON, Denver Center, Detroit TRACON, Indianapolis Center, Phoenix Airport, and the Phoenix TRACON. Over 600 flights were delayed at Denver Airport alone Monday, with more than 200 at Phoenix Airport.
Flightradar24 noted widespread disruptions, citing staffing shortfalls at Chicago, Nashville, and multiple Texas and northeastern facilities. The FAA stated that traffic into certain airports has been slowed to ensure safety amid the shortages. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted the strain on controllers, noting many may need second jobs to cover expenses. “All because @SenSchumer and @RepJeffries want to play politics,” he added.
Monday saw nearly 6,000 delayed flights nationwide, with 42% of departures from Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport and 23% from Hollywood Burbank affected. Weather also contributed to delays. As of Tuesday morning, over 600 domestic flights remained delayed, according to FlightAware data.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) urged urgent action, warning that staffing shortages leave the aviation system vulnerable. The union called for accelerated training and hiring to address the crisis, as controllers continue working without pay during the shutdown.