US Flight Delays Worsen as FAA Staffing Shortages Deepen During Government Shutdown

Air travel chaos continued to ripple across the United States on Tuesday, as major airports struggled with flight delays caused by ongoing staffing shortages at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The shortages, worsened by the prolonged government shutdown, have left air traffic controllers overworked and unpaid — leading to another day of turbulence for travelers.

According to the FAA, delays hit airports in Boston, Philadelphia, Nashville, Houston, Chicago, and Las Vegas, following widespread slowdowns on Monday in Denver, Phoenix, Burbank, and Newark.

Over 6,000 Flights Delayed Nationwide

Data from flight-tracking website FlightAware painted a grim picture — over 6,000 flights were delayed on Monday, almost double the number reported over the weekend. By early Tuesday morning, another 1,000 flights were already affected, with no clear end in sight.

Despite the rising numbers, the FAA said it has not yet issued a “staffing trigger,” which would officially reduce flight volumes at the hardest-hit airports.

Nashville and Chicago Among the Worst Affected

At Nashville International Airport (BNA), passengers faced delays of up to two hours by Tuesday afternoon. The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority confirmed that the FAA had ordered a temporary reduction in arriving and departing flights due to a lack of available controllers.

In Chicago, delays at O’Hare International Airport averaged 40 minutes, and FAA officials warned that the situation could persist well into the night.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, speaking from Newark International Airport, acknowledged the growing strain on aviation workers.

“Our priorities are safety,” Duffy said. “But when controllers are worrying about their mortgages and food for their families while working six days a week, the stress becomes unsustainable.”

Union Sounds Alarm as Shutdown Drags On

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) urged its members to stay professional despite the mounting pressure, warning that any strike or work stoppage would be considered illegal during the shutdown.

“Participating in a job action could result in removal from federal service,” the union said in a statement, noting that such actions would also damage NATCA’s credibility.

Still, NATCA President Nick Daniels pressed lawmakers to act urgently.

“We do not have the luxury of time,” Daniels said at a press conference in Newark. “Our message is clear — end the shutdown.”

Travellers Advised to Check Flight Status

While Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport reported minimal disruptions so far, officials urged passengers to check flight statuses regularly and arrive early, as uncertainty continues.

Meanwhile, the Senate once again failed on Monday night to pass legislation that would reopen the government, leaving travelers and air traffic workers bracing for another uncertain week.

At a Glance: Key Airports Affected

Nashville International Airport (BNA) – Delays up to 2 hours

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – Average 40-minute delays

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) – Staffing-related delays

Houston, Philadelphia, and Las Vegas – Ongoing disruptions

Denver, Phoenix, Burbank, Newark – Delays reported Monday