Air Traffic Controller Shortages Affect Nearly Half of Major US Airports

The staffing shortfalls forced flight delays that could worsen as the government shutdown drags on.

Travellers check in for flights at Terminal 1 of the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport during the government shutdown, in Minneapolis, on Oct. 29, 2025. Tim Evans/Reuters

Air traffic controller shortages at nearly 50 percent of the nation’s 30 most congested airports have exacerbated commercial airline delays nationwide, with officials warning that it could be a foreboding sign of the coming holiday season.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated on Friday that staffing shortfalls are widespread, as a federal government shutdown hit its 31st day.