Flight Chaos Sweeps U.S. Airports as Shutdown Triggers Severe Controller Shortages

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE

Article Published on: 01ST NOV 2025 | www.demodemagazine.com

Nearly half of America’s 30 busiest airports are facing severe air traffic controller shortages, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported Friday, as the federal government shutdown entered its 31st day. The crisis has led to nationwide flight disruptions, with New York among the hardest-hit regions—losing 80% of its controllers.

Airports in Newark, Austin, and Nashville reported delays averaging up to 101 minutes, while over 2,200 flights were delayed and 300 canceled by midnight, according to FlightAware. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned of more disruptions in the coming days. The shutdown has forced 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 TSA officers to work without pay. Airlines including Delta, United, Southwest, and American have urged Congress to pass a funding bill as political gridlock over healthcare policy stalls negotiations, echoing the aviation chaos that marked the 2019 government shutdown.