Air traffic controllers working without pay begin to call out sick
8 hours ago
- #air traffic control
- #flight delays
- #government shutdown
- Air traffic controllers are calling out sick due to the federal government shutdown, leading to flight delays and cancellations.
- Burbank Airport's tower was closed temporarily due to a lack of controllers, causing significant delays.
- Other ATC facilities, including Philadelphia TRACON and Denver Center, also faced staffing shortages.
- The FAA is managing traffic flow to ensure safety amid the staffing crisis.
- Controllers, working without pay, are facing financial stress, with some considering second jobs.
- The shutdown affects the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, threatening rural air routes.
- Political tensions have risen, with officials blaming each other for the shutdown's impacts.
- Alaska's air travel, heavily reliant on EAS, is particularly vulnerable to disruptions.