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Passengers across the United States are bracing for growing delays as airport staffing shortages continue to worsen during the ongoing government closure, now entering its seventh day.

Escalating Worries Over Air Travel Network

Labor leaders for air traffic controllers and security screeners have cautioned that the circumstances is expected to worsen, with staffing challenges documented at several key airports including locations such as Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Nashville and Philadelphia.

"The risk of broader effects to the US aviation system is growing by the day," commented travel industry analyst Henry Harteveldt.

He voiced serious worry that should the closure persist, it could potentially disrupt millions of Americans' Thanksgiving travel plans in November.

Travel Disruptions and Operational Issues

Staffing shortages, including an increased rate of workers taking sick leave, affected major airports around New York, Los Angeles and Denver on Monday, causing delays for over 6,000 flights nationwide.

• Burbank airport's flight control was temporarily closed and operations were handled by another facility
• Nashville airport reported postponements averaging 120 minutes due to staffing issues
• Chicago's O'Hare recorded typical postponements of 41 minutes
• The DFW airport had delays logged at half an hour

Sector Reaction and Union Position

The primary air traffic controllers union emphasized that it does not support any organized actions that could adversely impact the national flight network.

The organization clarified that air traffic controllers value their duty to ensure passenger security very seriously and engaging in any work stoppage could lead to termination of employment.

Official Viewpoint

The Transportation Department head Sean Duffy alerted that the country's air traffic control system is being harmed from the continuing federal closure.

"They're not just thinking about the flight paths," he commented regarding flight controllers who are working without pay. "They're concerned about, 'Am I going to get a paycheck'?"

He noted that many operators live paycheck to paycheck and are unable to manage extended periods without compensation.

Wider Consequences

According to contingency planning, approximately a quarter of the workforce, or more than 11,000 FAA employees, were furloughed when the shutdown began last week.

However, thirteen thousand flight controllers remain on duty, with recruitment and instruction also ongoing.

Union president Nick Daniels indicated that the shutdown has emphasized existing challenges faced by air traffic controllers, including staff shortages and outdated equipment.

He clarified that the situation is particularly grave at regional facilities where reduced personnel creates further difficulties.

Despite the extensive postponements, aviation analytics indicated that roughly ninety-two percent of flights departing from US airports departed as scheduled as of Tuesday afternoon.

The Federal Aviation Administration had not activated a "staffing trigger" that would decrease the number of flights in and out of airports, suggesting that operations were continuing despite the difficulties.