US Government Shutdown Causes Record 7,000 Nationwide Flight Delays

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown, now in its 27th day, has severely impacted air travel with nearly 7,000 flight delays and numerous cancellations due to the absence of pay for essential air traffic controllers. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is grappling with a shortage of over 3,800 certified controllers, a problem worsened by the shutdown causing many controllers to call in sick or seek additional jobs to cover basic expenses. Union leaders and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy have highlighted the financial hardships faced by controllers, including difficulties affording childcare and medical needs, which have compromised their focus and safety. Despite the strain, officials maintain that flying remains safe, though the FAA has had to reduce flight volumes at busy airports to maintain operations. Political stalemates persist, with Senate votes failing to pass stopgap funding bills, as President Trump demands government reopening before negotiating on healthcare funding, prolonging the shutdown and its effects on federal workers and public services. Experts warn that if the shutdown continues, the holiday travel season could suffer major disruptions with significant economic consequences.