The recent government shutdown, initiated on October 1 due to a budget dispute, has resulted in significant disruptions to the U.S. aviation system. Reports indicate that over 6,000 flights are being delayed daily, which is nearly double the historical average for October, according to the Department of Transportation. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has warned of longer security lines at airports and has ceased updating real-time checkpoint information on its MyTSA app. Some major airports have operated without air traffic control for extended periods.
The shutdown affected more than half a million federal employees, with air traffic controllers and TSA officers designated as “excepted employees,” meaning they must continue to work without pay. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy confirmed that while controllers who report for duty will eventually receive their wages, the payments may be delayed. This situation poses financial challenges for many workers, affecting their ability to meet everyday expenses.
As travel delays escalate, the impact on airport security is increasingly evident. Reports suggest that numerous TSA employees have called in sick, likely due to financial constraints. In a press conference, Duffy acknowledged slight increases in sick calls and their implications for staffing at various air traffic facilities.
Historically, federal workers have limited options to advocate for pay. The past repercussions faced by striking air traffic controllers in 1981 serve as a cautionary tale. Presently, sick leave and the ability to call in absence provide some measure of relief but may not suffice in the long run.
As of October 10, staffing shortages have hampered operations across various significant airport facilities, resulting in a substantial rise in flight delays. With Congress not expected to reconvene until October 19, concerns grow over how prolonged shutdowns may further exacerbate challenges for travelers and essential aviation personnel.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/transportation/799413/faa-air-travel-delays-government-shutdown