Airports in Chaos: The Hidden Cost of the Government Shutdown

The government shutdown is causing major headaches at airports across the country. Orlando International Airport, one of Florida's busiest, faced significant delays due to a lack of air traffic controllers. Flights were delayed by an average of 2. 7 hours, with the issue expected to last from 10 p. m. to 3 a. m. ET. Earlier in the day, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that no certified air traffic controllers were available. This led to a temporary halt on incoming flights. The situation improved later, with the FAA noting an increase in staffing for the F11 Central Florida Tracon. The ground delay at Orlando International Airport was directly linked to staffing issues. A spokesperson for the airport mentioned that the delay program aimed to reduce the number of arrivals, but passengers still faced significant delays. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, also experienced delays averaging 90 minutes. These delays were in effect from 1:30 p. m. Thursday to 1 a. m. Friday. This is not the first time airports have faced issues due to the government shutdown. Earlier, flights to Los Angeles International Airport were halted because of a staffing shortage. A temporary ground stop was issued, with delays averaging an hour and 40 minutes. The shutdown has now lasted for 30 days, and federal employees, including air traffic controllers, have received zero-dollar paychecks. This has added to the stress of an already challenging situation. Delta Air Lines has urged Congress to reopen the government, highlighting the increased stress on essential workers who are already working overtime. The crisis has exacerbated existing issues for air traffic controllers, who often work six days a week with 10-hour shifts. Many have taken on second jobs to make ends meet, adding to the strain. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association, a labor union and aviation safety organization, has demanded an end to the shutdown. They have been handing out leaflets to raise awareness about the grueling schedules and financial struggles of air traffic controllers.