Nearly 7,000 U.S. flights were delayed Monday as air traffic controller absences surged during the 27th day of the federal government shutdown.
The FAA cited staffing shortages, imposing ground delays at Newark, Austin, and Dallas–Fort Worth airports. Earlier, shortages in Atlanta disrupted flights across the southeast.
Around 13,000 controllers and 50,000 TSA officers are working without pay as the budget standoff between President Trump and congressional Democrats drags on.
Officials warn delays will worsen as workers miss their first full paycheck Tuesday. On Sunday, over 8,800 flights were delayed, with Southwest, American, Delta, and United each reporting widespread disruptions.
Controller absences now account for 44% of delays, up from the usual 5%, intensifying public frustration and pressure on lawmakers to end the shutdown.
