The ongoing federal government shutdown is severely disrupting U.S. air travel and threatening aviation safety, according to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. Speaking at Philadelphia International Airport, Duffy said air traffic controller shortages have caused up to 53% of flight delays, compared to just 5% on normal days.
The White House warns of potential flight delays and cancellations during Thanksgiving holiday travel if the government shutdown continues, as air traffic controllers and TSA officers work without pay https://t.co/Myp4BBqyRP pic.twitter.com/k8pQlvjWxq
— Reuters (@Reuters) October 24, 2025
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reports over 215 staffing shortages since the shutdown began—four times higher than last year.
Air traffic controllers, roughly 10,800 federal employees, are required to work without pay and will receive their first $0 paycheck on October 28.
"I can't guarantee you that your flight's gonna be on time. I can't guarantee you that your flight's not going to be cancelled."
— ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) October 23, 2025
Transportation Sec. Sean Duffy discusses how the government shutdown is impacting air traffic control and aviation travel. https://t.co/rDlZJOQKAH pic.twitter.com/vpyU8dzb7P
Union officials warned that unpaid and overworked controllers make the nation’s skies “less safe every day.” Duffy confirmed the FAA may slow or cancel flights to ensure safety.
Meanwhile, the FAA Academy is at risk of halting training as funding runs out, worsening an existing shortage of 3,000 controllers nationwide.
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TIPP Staff
