US Airport Flight Delays Worsen Amid Government Shutdown Staffing Shortages

Flight delays and cancellations at major U.S. airports, particularly Orlando International and Austin-Bergstrom, have worsened amid an ongoing government shutdown causing air traffic controllers to work without pay. Orlando International Airport has faced average delays of over two hours due to a shortage of controllers, impacting thousands of travelers and causing complications for those visiting popular destinations like Disney World. The FAA has implemented ground delay programs to manage limited staffing capacity, resulting in significant wait times for arriving flights. At Austin-Bergstrom, ground delays have caused flights to be held for up to several hours, with similar staffing shortages predating the shutdown and exacerbated by it. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that delays could worsen as the busy holiday travel season approaches, while stressed and fatigued air traffic controllers face financial strains. Additionally, weather disruptions in the Northeast compound these issues, leading to broader nationwide air travel challenges.