Read, Watch or Listen

US airports are experiencing flight delays and cancellations due to a worsening shortage of air traffic controllers, exacerbated by the ongoing government shutdown. Essential air traffic controllers are working without pay, leading to increased stress and a rise in sick calls, with staffing levels reportedly dropping by 50% in some areas. This situation has impacted major airports nationwide, causing delays of up to an hour. The shutdown, stemming from a budget dispute, has put approximately 750,000 federal workers on unpaid leave.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.