Travelers flying in or out of U.S. airports may encounter disruptions due to staffing issues exacerbated by a government shutdown. CBS News correspondent Chris Van Cleve highlighted chaos at Los Angeles International Airport, as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported approximately 52,000 flights scheduled for Columbus Day weekend. Essential TSA officers and air traffic controllers are working without immediate pay, leading to a rise in employee sickness and resulting in unexpected flight delays and cancellations.
Air traffic controller shortages, traditionally responsible for 5% of delays, have escalated to 53%, according to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. Many FAA facilities are understaffed, particularly during peak travel times, causing significant disruptions, such as the impact on 40,000 flyers at Nashville International Airport.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has urged its members to maintain work attendance despite payment issues. While delays and cancellations this week remain within historical norms, the ongoing staffing shortages could worsen the situation further, with increasing delays noted by Van Cleve.
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