Big Delays at LAX and San Diego Airport
Introduction to the Issue
Two of Southern California’s busiest airports were experiencing average flight delays of at least an hour Sunday amid air traffic control staffing shortages due to the federal government shutdown. The advisories from the FAA’s Air Traffic Control System Command Center said the delays were expected to persist through Sunday night. The issue was related to “staffing,” the advisories said. For San Diego, the advisory specified an issue with “tower staffing.”
Impact on Flight Schedules
Delays were expected to increase to nearly 1½ hours for flights heading to LAX between 8 and 10 p.m. At San Diego International Airport, delays were expected to worsen to nearly 1 hour and 20 minutes between 9 and 10 p.m. The only other airport nationwide with a ground delay advisory was in New Jersey, where the situation was even worse. Departures to Newark Liberty International Airport were delayed by an average of more than 3½ hours, an advisory said. From 7 to 8 p.m. Eastern time, average delays of 4½ hours were expected.
Cause of the Delays
Since the federal government shut down on Oct. 1, the FAA has warned of disruption at airports due to staff shortages. Air traffic controllers are required to work unpaid when the federal government shuts down and do not obtain retroactive pay until Congress comes to an agreement on a budget. Airports across the nation have experienced staff shortages at their air traffic control towers since the shutdown began.
National Impact
The federal government shutdown has had a widespread impact on air travel, with multiple airports experiencing delays due to staffing shortages. The situation at LAX and San Diego International Airport is part of a larger national issue, with air traffic controllers working without pay and airports struggling to maintain normal operations.
Conclusion
The big delays at LAX and San Diego airport due to air traffic control staffing shortages are a significant concern for travelers. The federal government shutdown has had a profound impact on air travel, and it is essential for Congress to come to an agreement on a budget to prevent further disruptions. Until then, travelers can expect delays and should plan accordingly.
FAQs
What is causing the delays at LAX and San Diego airport?
The delays are due to air traffic control staffing shortages caused by the federal government shutdown.
How long are the delays expected to last?
The delays are expected to persist through Sunday night, with some flights experiencing delays of over an hour.
Are other airports affected by the staffing shortages?
Yes, airports across the nation have experienced staff shortages at their air traffic control towers since the shutdown began, including Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.
Will air traffic controllers receive pay for their work during the shutdown?
Air traffic controllers are required to work unpaid during the shutdown and will not receive retroactive pay until Congress comes to an agreement on a budget.
