Airports affected by U.S. Government shutdown

As the U.S. federal government shutdown enters its third week, airports across the nation are facing significant operational challenges, leading to increased flight delays, staffing shortages, and heightened concerns over aviation safety. 

Read the list down below to see which airports have and are currently being affected:

• Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR): The airport’s control tower was temporarily shut down on October 6 due to staffing shortages, leaving pilots to self-coordinate flights for nearly six hours. This incident resulted in average flight delays of approximately two and a half hours.
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): Staffing issues have led to delays and slower processing times at security checkpoints and air traffic control centres.
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): Similar staffing shortages are causing delays and operational challenges. 
• Nashville International Airport (BNA): The airport is experiencing significant staff-related delays, with some operations functioning at half their normal capacity 
• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS): Staffing shortages have led to increased delays and longer wait times for passengers.
• Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Similar to other major airports, PHL is facing delays and operational challenges due to staffing issues.
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX): Staffing shortages are causing delays and operational challenges.
• Denver International Airport (DEN): Experiencing delays and longer wait times due to staffing shortages.
• Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): Facing delays and operational challenges due to staffing issues.
• Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS): Staffing shortages are leading to delays and longer wait times.
• Orlando International Airport (MCO): Experiencing delays and operational challenges.
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): Facing delays and staffing issues.

Experts are raising alarms about the broader implications of the shutdown on aviation safety. With air traffic control staffing levels compromised, the risk of miscommunication and operational errors increases. Additionally, the suspension of FAA modernisation projects and safety event analyses could have long-term consequences for the aviation infrastructure. 

The U.S. Travel Association has estimated that the shutdown could cost the economy $1 billion a week, further straining the travel industry and impacting passengers nationwide. 

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