Air Traffic Control Staffing Shortages Cause Significant Flight Delays at Major U.S. Airports

Major U.S. airports, including Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Diego International Airport, are experiencing significant flight delays due to air traffic control staffing shortages amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported that these delays are expected to persist, with LAX anticipating delays of nearly 1.5 hours for incoming flights between 8 and 10 p.m., and San Diego International Airport expecting delays of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes between 9 and 10 p.m.

The FAA has attributed these delays to staffing issues, specifically noting tower staffing shortages at San Diego International Airport. The current federal government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025, has led to the furlough of approximately 900,000 federal employees, including many air traffic controllers. While essential personnel are required to work without pay during the shutdown, the resulting staffing shortages have led to disruptions in air travel across the country.

In addition to the delays at LAX and San Diego, other major airports nationwide are also affected. Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey is experiencing even more severe delays, with departures delayed by an average of over 3.5 hours, and delays expected to reach 4.5 hours between 7 and 8 p.m. Eastern time. The FAA has warned that as the shutdown continues, travelers should anticipate further disruptions due to the ongoing air traffic control staffing shortages.