Shutdown exacerbates air traffic control shortages
The government is shutdown is aggravating air traffic control staff shortages at some airports.
There seems to have been an uptick in sick leave at some airports
Air traffic controllers are classed as essential roles and are required to work even though they are not receiving pay while the shutdown continues.
The Federal Aviation Administration said shortages have impacted Hollywood Burbank Airport in California, Newark Liberty and Denver.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, responsible for Newark Liberty, said it is taking ‘proactive measures’ as it was causing some delays on Monday.
The Department of Transportation said recruitment and training of new air traffic controllers would continue.
Transport Secretary Sean Duffy called for a swift end to the shutdown.
The government has been pushing to get more controllers trained and certified amid nationwide shortages, even before the shutdown.
“This is the latest example of how fragile our aviation system is in the midst of a national shortage of these critical safety professionals” said NACTA, the union whish represents thousands of ATC workers.
“Nearly 11,000 fully certified controllers remain on the job, many working 10-hour shifts as many as six days a week, showing extraordinary dedication,” the union added.
NACTA said it has been working with the FAA to ‘supercharge’ hiring of more controllers.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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