Thousands of US Flights Cancelled, Delayed as Government Shutdown Continues

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has disrupted air travel nationwide, with thousands of flights cancelled or delayed as unpaid air traffic controllers and TSA agents struggle to keep operations running. The crisis has left passengers stranded, airlines overwhelmed, and experts warning of worsening travel chaos.

Aviation System in Crisis

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are severely understaffed, as employees work without pay or call in sick due to financial hardship. Air traffic controllers are operating at reduced capacity, causing delays at major hubs like New York (JFK), Chicago (O’Hare), and Atlanta (Hartsfield-Jackson). Meanwhile, TSA shortages have led to hours-long security lines.

On Tuesday, over 3,000 flights were delayed and 500+ cancelled, according to FlightAware. Airlines like Delta, American, and United have issued travel waivers, advising passengers to verify flight status before heading to airports.

Unpaid Workers Push Limits

Nearly 10,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 TSA officers are working without pay, with some calling in sick in protest. Morale is at an all-time low as workers struggle to pay bills.

“I love my job, but I can’t afford to work for free,” said a TSA agent at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (anonymous).

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) warns the system is near breaking point. “If this continues, we risk a catastrophic air travel failure,” said NATCA President Paul Rinaldi.

Economic & Safety Fallout

The shutdown is costing the aviation industry millions per day in lost revenue and operational delays. The U.S. Travel Association estimates $100 million daily in economic damage.

Safety is another concern—FAA safety inspectors, who oversee aircraft maintenance, are furloughed, raising risks of oversight gaps.

Political Deadlock Worsens Crisis

Now in its 34th day, the shutdown stems from a standoff between President Trump and Democrats over border wall funding. Negotiations remain stalled, leaving federal workers in limbo.

The White House calls the disruptions “regrettable” but refuses to reopen government without wall funding. Democrats accuse the administration of holding workers hostage.

Traveler Tips Amid Uncertainty

With no resolution in sight, experts advise passengers to:
✔ Check flight status regularly
✔ Arrive early for TSA delays
✔ Consider travel insurance for cancellations

Airlines are managing as best they can, but prolonged shutdown risks a full aviation meltdown.