More than 8,000 flights across the United States were delayed on Sunday due to severe staffing shortages linked to the ongoing government shutdown, according to data from flight-tracking service FlightAware.
As of 11 p.m. local time on October 26, delays had climbed from approximately 5,300 the day before — a disruption that continues to worsen since the shutdown began on October 1.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said staffing levels at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have dropped at 22 locations nationwide. He warned that further delays and cancellations are likely in the days ahead.
Nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are working without pay, underscoring how the 26-day political stalemate has strained essential services and daily life across the country.
The administration of President Donald Trump has cautioned that disruptions will intensify starting Tuesday, when controllers are set to miss their first full paycheck. Workers last received 90 percent of their base salary two weeks ago.
“This crisis will deepen if October salaries remain withheld,” officials warned, noting growing pressure on Congress to resolve the budget impasse behind the shutdown.
Duffy said many aviation workers are already seeking extra employment to stay afloat financially.
“They are looking for second jobs,” he noted.
Even prior to the shutdown, the FAA was short about 3,500 employees, forcing staff into overtime and six-day workweeks. A similar shortage in Trump’s previous term — during a 35-day shutdown — compelled authorities to reduce flights in New York and Washington.
