Air traffic control crisis

Air travel across the US faced widespread delays for a second day as air traffic control staffing shortages hit major airports, including Nashville, Chicago, and Philadelphia. The Federal Aviation Administration, already short about 3,000 controllers, reported “insufficient staffing” at multiple facilities. The shortages, worsened by the ongoing government shutdown, have forced controllers and TSA officers to work without pay, prompting increased absences. While officials deny any organized protest, union leaders warn the system is “fragile” and could see worsening disruptions if the shutdown continues and workers continue missing paychecks.