Flight operations across the United States entered a second day of widespread delays Tuesday as the ongoing federal government shutdown continues to squeeze air traffic control staffing.
Airports in Denver, Phoenix, Burbank, and Newark reported significant slowdowns Monday evening, marking the first full day that air traffic controllers and other essential FAA employees have been working without pay.
According to tracking data from FlightAware, more than 6,000 flights were delayed nationwide on Monday — double the number reported over the weekend. Early Tuesday, roughly 1,000 flights were already affected.
The Federal Aviation Administration has not yet activated a staffing contingency that would limit flights for safety reasons, but officials warn that the situation remains fragile.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, speaking Monday at Newark Liberty International Airport, acknowledged a noticeable uptick in sick leave reports among federal aviation staff since the shutdown began last week.
“Our top concern is passenger safety,” Duffy said. “If staffing levels drop further, we’ll have to slow traffic to ensure safe operations.”
He added that many air traffic controllers are under growing financial pressure. “They’re worried about mortgages, bills, and putting food on the table while still showing up to one of the most demanding jobs in the country,” Duffy said.
Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, urged lawmakers to act quickly. “This situation is unsustainable,” Daniels said. “Every hour of inaction adds to the risk. End the shutdown now.”
Airport representatives offered varying responses. Denver International declined to comment, while Hollywood Burbank Airport said in a post on X that it remains “open and operational” but advised travelers to check flight updates before heading out.
Phoenix Sky Harbor spokesperson Eric Everts said operations there were continuing smoothly for now but warned passengers to expect possible slowdowns and to arrive early, especially during the busy fall travel period.
Efforts to reopen the government stalled again Monday night, as the Senate failed to pass a temporary funding measure. With no deal in sight, travelers should brace for continued disruptions in the coming days.
