Shutdown Enters Fourth Week, U.S. Flight Disruptions Worsen

As the federal government shutdown entered its fourth week (day 27), widespread staffing shortages among air-traffic controllers (about 13,000 working without pay) and roughly 50,000 unpaid TSA officers have led to major flight disruptions nationwide. On Oct. 27 more than 5,600 flights were delayed, and the FAA imposed ground delay programs and temporary ground stops at major hubs including Newark Liberty, Austin‑Bergstrom, Dallas–Fort Worth and LAX, with Southeast facilities — notably Atlanta — reporting staffing triggers. Unions and controller groups say the workforce was already understaffed by thousands and that rising absences and sick calls driven by missed paychecks are exacerbating delays, while Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy urged controllers to “show up.” Localized weather, including impacts from Hurricane Melissa, and other operational issues have compounded disruptions in some regions. Airlines reported elevated delay rates, passengers faced long waits and cancellations, and community groups at some airports have stepped in to help unpaid federal workers as pressure mounts on lawmakers to resolve the budget impasse.