Home Consumer Major U.S. Airports Face Rising Delays as Government Shutdown Strains Aviation Staff

Major U.S. Airports Face Rising Delays as Government Shutdown Strains Aviation Staff

Oct 24, 2025

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The ongoing federal government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025, is already ripple-effecting travel across the United States. A key vulnerability: the people who keep planes flying and passengers secure. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reports that many air traffic controllers — required to stay on the job despite operating without pay — have begun calling in sick, slowing take-offs and landings at multiple airports.

One dramatic illustration: at Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) in California, the control tower was unmanned for about six hours on October 6; air traffic was shifted remotely and pilots were left to self-coordinate on taxiing. Delays averaged 2½ hours.

Security checkpoints at large airports are also feeling the strain. While most agency staff are considered “essential” and must work, they’re doing so without regular pay — a formula for burnout, absenteeism and slower processing. +1

For travelers, the message is clear: flights are still operating, but you may face longer lines, slower airports and unexpected cancellations. The longer the shutdown drags on, the more likely the strain will deepen.

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