Nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers have been working without pay for weeks, ensuring the safety of more than 50,000 daily operations across the national airspace system (NAS).
As we head into this weekend, a surge in callouts is straining staffing levels at multiple facilities, leading to widespread impacts across the NAS. Currently, half of our Core 30 facilities are experiencing staffing shortages, and nearly 80 percent of air traffic controllers are absent at New York–area facilities.
After 31 days without pay, air traffic controllers are under immense stress and fatigue.
The shutdown must end so that these controllers receive the pay they’ve earned and travelers can avoid further disruptions and delays.
As we continue to reiterate, we will never compromise on safety. When staffing shortages occur, the FAA will reduce the flow of air traffic to maintain safety. This may result in delays or cancellations.
For real-time updates at U.S. airports due to staffing, weather, or other factors, please visit
nasstatus.faa.gov and check with your airline before going to the airport.