US airports are experiencing significant delays attributed to a shortage of air traffic controllers, many of whom are currently working without pay due to a federal government shutdown that has lasted for nearly two months. A ground stop was issued at Newark Airport, a key hub for New York, leading to average delays exceeding three hours, with potential for extended disruptions.
Approximately half of the 30 major airports in the United States are facing staff shortages. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy indicated that flight cancellations are likely necessary to ensure safety in the national airspace. Nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers are among essential federal workers required to continue their duties without pay during this period.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has stated that the staff shortages will necessitate a reduction in air traffic flow to maintain operational safety, which may lead to further delays or cancellations. On a recent Saturday, about 4,500 domestic flights were delayed, and more than 500 were canceled. Reports indicated that around 80% of air traffic controllers in New York were absent as the weekend approached.
Duffy mentioned that the FAA intends to take necessary actions to ensure passenger safety, acknowledging a heightened level of risk when controllers are required to manage multiple responsibilities. He also noted the stress experienced by air traffic controllers working under these circumstances, particularly as many rely on their salaries as the primary source of household income.
As the shutdown continues, lawmakers are struggling to find a resolution. A Republican-led funding bill has faced repeated failures in the Senate, while Democrats are advocating for an extension of health insurance tax credits and a reversal of recent cuts to Medicaid, which serves numerous vulnerable populations. The ongoing stalemate raises questions about the impact of the shutdown on essential services and public safety.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm277455158o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss