Air traffic controller shortage still causing ground stops and delays at these U.S. airports

Flights to Los Angeles International Airport were temporarily grounded due to an air traffic control staffing shortage. The FAA also reported staffing-related delays at airports in Chicago, Washington, and Newark. Secretary Duffy predicted increased flight delays and cancellations due to unpaid air traffic controllers. Duffy indicated more controllers are calling in sick, citing financial stress during the government shutdown. The FAA grounded flights to Los Angeles from 11:42 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Eastern time. FlightAware revealed Dallas airports experienced greater delays due to weather and equipment issues. Insufficient air traffic controllers also caused disruptions at airports in Newark and Fort Meyers. The FAA slowed traffic to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Chicago O’Hare due to staffing. The staffing shortages are attributed to financial stress among air traffic controllers during the shutdown.