Federal Aviation Administration, FlightAware
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Over 1,400 flights experienced delays due to ongoing air traffic controller shortages amid a lengthy federal government shutdown. The Federal Aviation Administration reported staffing issues affecting flights in the southeast and at New Jersey's Newark airport,
With around 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 TSA agents working without pay, airports from Los Angeles to Chicago are beginning to feel pressure from staffing gaps.
Staffing shortages for air traffic controllers accounted for about 5% of flight delays before the shutdown. It now accounts for about 53% of delays.
Drone flights would be forbidden over outdoor public gatherings and above 400 feet (122 metres) in most cases. Operators would have to buy drones capable of flying without visual supervision, but, as long as it met spec, each drone leaving a production line would need only testing, not a federal airworthiness certification.
Federal workers are feeling the effects of the government shutdown, which is approaching its fourth week. Ahead of the shutdown, President Donald Trump warned of possible layoffs. Now, hundreds of employees have been furloughed or laid off as it continues.
The FAA’s MOSAIC rule takes effect October 22, 2025 for sport-pilot changes and July 24 2026 for airworthiness changes, widening pilot privileges and light-sport aircraft eligibility.
Scripps News on MSN
Federal workers miss first full paychecks as shutdown becomes second-longest in US history
Roughly one million federal employees are estimated to be going without pay during the shutdown. Now, many are expecting to miss the first full paycheck since the shutdown began.
After many federal employees missed paychecks, AFGE called for a “clean” continuing resolution. The financial issues are compounded by other recent changes too.
The federal government shutdown, now in its 25th day, is significantly impacting air travel. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported staffing shortag