The issue has been made worse by the continuing government funding crisis, which has left many FAA employees—including air traffic controllers—working without pay. Fatigue, financial stress, and burnout are leading to an increasing number of staff absences, creating significant operational challenges across the country.
FAA Operations Under Strain
Due to limited staffing, the FAA has introduced “flow control” procedures to slow down the number of takeoffs and landings. While these safety measures are essential to maintain control over busy airspace, they’re also causing major ripple effects, with flight schedules across multiple airports being delayed or disrupted.
Some airports are seeing longer wait times both in the air and on the ground, while others are occasionally forced to adjust flight routes and landing slots to ensure safe operations.
Airports Most Affected
Among the major airports hit hardest by the delays are
- New York Airports – Newark Liberty (EWR) and LaGuardia (LGA)
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Nashville International Airport (BNA)
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Houston Airports – Hobby (HOU) and George Bush Intercontinental (IAH)
- Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)
In some cases, smaller airport control facilities have had to temporarily suspend operations. At Burbank, one recent evening saw the control tower briefly unstaffed, forcing pilots to self-coordinate over radio—a rare and temporary measure for a commercial airport.
If you’re traveling soon, here’s what you can do to minimize stress:
- Monitor Flight Updates Closely: Always check your airline’s website, app, or the FAA’s official delay page for real-time updates before heading to the airport.
- Arrive Early: Longer security and check-in queues are likely due to reduced staffing, so plan extra time for airport procedures.
- Understand Your Rights: If your flight is canceled, you’re entitled to a full refund, even if you booked a non-refundable ticket. You can also request a rebooking directly with your airline.
- Be Patient and Stay Calm: Airport and airline staff are doing their best under challenging conditions. A little patience and kindness can go a long way.