Flight Delays Sweep Across U.S. as Air Traffic Controller Shortage Deepens

Flights across the United States are facing widespread delays as a shortage of air traffic controllers and security staff continues to strain the aviation system. Airports in Nashville, Boston, Chicago, and Philadelphia have been among the hardest hit.

The staffing crisis has also raised safety concerns. California’s governor revealed that a busy Los Angeles-area airport had no air traffic controller on duty for nearly six hours on Monday evening. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that departures at Hollywood Burbank Airport were delayed by an average of two and a half hours as a result.

The U.S. has struggled with air traffic control shortages for more than a decade, with many controllers working mandatory overtime and six-day weeks even before the current government shutdown exacerbated the problem.

The Australian government issued updated travel advice on Wednesday, warning of disruptions to “some federal government services,” including flight delays and longer queues at airports. Travelers were urged to check with their airlines to confirm whether their plans had been affected.