Airports in Chaos: The Hidden Cost of the Government Shutdown
Orlando International Airport Faces Significant Delays
Orlando International Airport, one of Florida's busiest, faced significant delays due to a lack of air traffic controllers.
- Average Delay: 2.7 hours
- Time Period: 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. ET
Earlier in the day, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that no certified air traffic controllers were available, leading to a temporary halt on incoming flights. The situation improved later with increased staffing for the F11 Central Florida Tracon.
The ground delay was directly linked to staffing issues. A spokesperson for the airport mentioned that the delay program aimed to reduce the number of arrivals, but passengers still faced significant delays.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport Also Affected
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, experienced delays averaging 90 minutes.
- Time Period: 1:30 p.m. Thursday to 1 a.m. Friday
Previous Incidents
This is not the first time airports have faced issues due to the government shutdown. Earlier, flights to Los Angeles International Airport were halted because of a staffing shortage.
- Average Delay: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Impact on Federal Employees
The shutdown has now lasted for 30 days, and federal employees, including air traffic controllers, have received zero-dollar paychecks. This has added to the stress of an already challenging situation.
Delta Air Lines has urged Congress to reopen the government, highlighting the increased stress on essential workers who are already working overtime.
Struggles of Air Traffic Controllers
The crisis has exacerbated existing issues for air traffic controllers, who often work six days a week with 10-hour shifts. Many have taken on second jobs to make ends meet, adding to the strain.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association, a labor union and aviation safety organization, has demanded an end to the shutdown. They have been handing out leaflets to raise awareness about the grueling schedules and financial struggles of air traffic controllers.