Lingering Air Travel Delays Persist Post-Government Reopening
The recent government shutdown, the longest in U.S. history, has profoundly impacted air travel across the country. As the government prepares to reopen, many essential services, including federal employee compensation, may resume. However, the effects on air travel are expected to linger even after the reopening.
Significant Air Travel Disruptions
Since the shutdown began on October 1, the consequences have been evident. Staffing shortages among air traffic controllers led to increased flight delays and cancellations. Many controllers opted for unpaid leave, exacerbating an already critical staffing situation.
- By mid-October, about 10% of all flights were delayed or canceled.
- This rate was double the disruption rate recorded during the same period last year.
As of early November, a striking 40% of flights operated by major U.S. carriers were delayed or canceled. Over the past four days, an average of 2,100 flights were canceled daily, with 8,800 delays reported. In contrast, the daily averages for the previous year were only 200 cancellations and 3,000 delays.
Impact on Major Airports
The staffing shortages affected operations at half of the nation’s “Core 30” airports. New York’s air traffic control facilities experienced shocking absenteeism, with nearly 80% of controllers absent on Halloween.
Steps Taken to Mitigate Disruptions
In response to these challenges, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy implemented measures to curb flight volumes. Airlines are being mandated to reduce their flight schedules by up to 10%. However, experts believe this reduction will have minimal impact on the overall situation.
Air traffic controller Marcus Miller highlighted that the volume is expected to ramp up, especially with the holiday season approaching. Flight volumes may not return to normal, and further disruptions could be anticipated.
A Government Reopening Won’t Solve Everything
As the government prepares to reopen, the disruptions in air travel are unlikely to resolve immediately. The compounding effect of the six-week shutdown means recovery will take time. There is a strong possibility that delays and cancellations will extend through the Thanksgiving travel period.
- Expected air travelers during the holiday: over 31 million.
In sum, air travel disruptions will persist for weeks even after the government reopens, creating ongoing challenges for airlines and passengers alike.
