Staffing issues at air traffic control facilities across the United States, including a complete controller absence at a major Los Angeles-area airport, caused significant disruptions Monday night, coming hours after the Transportation Secretary acknowledged a “slight increase” in sick calls since the government shutdown began last week.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported staffing shortfalls at multiple facilities, with the most severe impact felt at Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR). Sources familiar with the situation confirmed that no air traffic controllers were expected to be in the tower for several hours Monday night due to the shortages.
The FAA’s website listed the issue at Hollywood Burbank from 4 p.m. to 9:59 p.m. PT. During this time, the airport’s air traffic was expected to be handled by San Diego Terminal Radar Approach Control, but at a “much reduced rate,” virtually guaranteeing arrival and departure delays.
Despite the tower being unstaffed, Hollywood Burbank Airport assured the public via a post on X that operations were continuing, advising travelers to “check with your airline — before arriving at the airport — for updates on possible delays or cancellations.”
Beyond Los Angeles, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey and Denver International Airport (DEN) and Nashville International Airport (BNA) also experienced air traffic control staffing issues, according to the FAA’s website.
The staffing crunch coincides with the government shutdown, which is set to hit the one-week mark. Air traffic controllers, deemed essential employees, are working without pay, as the Senate has passed legislation to reopen the government.
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Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy addressed the issue earlier Monday at Newark airport, noting a marginal but noticeable rise in employees calling in sick.
“We’re tracking sick calls, sick leave, and have had a slight tick up in sick calls? Yes, and then you’ll see delays that come from that,” Duffy stated, adding that safety remains the top priority. “If we have additional sick calls, we will reduce the flow consistent with a rate that’s safe for the American people.”
With the political impasse in Washington showing no signs of an imminent resolution, travelers should anticipate further potential disruptions as the financial strain of working without pay continues to weigh on the federal workforce.
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