FAA Implements Ground Delays at Austin Airport Over Staffing Shortages

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is experiencing significant flight delays due to staffing shortages at its air traffic control tower, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue a ground delay affecting all incoming U.S. domestic flights. The ground delay began mid-morning and is expected to last until 9 p.m., causing an average delay of 49 minutes with some flights delayed up to nearly two hours. The shortage has led to fewer controllers on shift than scheduled, with only eight to ten working instead of the planned fourteen, exacerbating the problem. This staffing issue is part of a broader national challenge faced by the FAA, which has recently terminated probationary employees and is now recruiting replacements amid a controller shortfall. Local officials and the FAA have acknowledged the delays but have provided limited details on staffing plans, while travelers are advised to check flight statuses closely. The situation follows earlier warnings about inadequate staffing levels at Austin's control tower, highlighting ongoing operational difficulties at this busy airport.