Washington, October 28 (Udaipur Kiran) — Air travel across the United States was severely disrupted on Monday, with over 4,000 flights delayed and around 118 flights cancelled, as the country continues to grapple with a government shutdown now stretching into its 27th day.
The prolonged shutdown has led to significant staffing shortages at airports and air traffic control towers nationwide, causing widespread delays and operational challenges.
According to FlightAware, more than 8,700 flights were delayed on Sunday alone, as the strain on the aviation system worsened. Nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are currently working without pay, putting immense pressure on air travel operations.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that flight operations have been particularly affected in the southeastern U.S. and at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey due to staff shortages. At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), the FAA implemented a ground delay program, holding flights for an average of 25 minutes.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy told Fox News on Sunday that employees were notified last week about the delay in their paychecks.
“They were told on Thursday and Friday that they won’t be receiving their scheduled payments on Tuesday,” Duffy said, expressing concern over the growing financial stress among essential workers.
He added that many air traffic controllers are struggling to meet their daily expenses.
“I’ve spoken to several controllers — the stress is clearly visible on their faces. These are people who live paycheck to paycheck, worried about fueling their cars and taking care of their children,” he said.
The Transportation Department has assured that flight operations will continue, but warned that longer delays and cancellations could persist if the shutdown continues. Airlines have advised passengers to check their flight status in advance and prepare for extended waiting times at airports.
Experts caution that even after the shutdown ends, clearing the backlog of delayed flights could take several days due to ongoing staffing and logistical challenges.
With no clear resolution in sight, airports across the country are facing continued disruptions as the federal standoff drags on.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.