A shortage of air traffic controllers is piling up as the government shutdown drags on. delays and failures reported at airports across the country.
The Federal Aviation Administration has released staffing schedules that mean air traffic control The center is understaffed due to an unusually long list of centers as of Friday evening.
At least 11 airports face delays Friday night called the staffing issue a problem, per FAA guidelines.
The airports experiencing delays include all three of New York's major airports – Newark, John F. Kennedy and LaGuardia – which also faced weather problems.
About half of all flights out of LaGuardia were delayed, and together the three airports recorded more than 800 delays and cancellations, according to Flightaware.
“JFK, Newark and LaGuardia are subject to traffic restrictions this evening due to high winds and reduced personnel at several air traffic control centers,” the New York City Department of Emergency Management said, adding: “Additional restrictions are possible if conditions worsen. Travelers should expect widespread delays and check with their airline for the latest flight status.”
Other airports that experienced staffing delays on Friday included Nashville International, Phoenix Sky Harbor and George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston.
Since government shutdown On Oct. 1, airports across the country reported delays and disruptions due to a shortage of air traffic controllers, who are working for free during the shutdown.
On October 28, they received their first paycheck of $0.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association has previously said the issue highlights the importance of addressing the current air traffic controller shortage.
The FAA and the Department of Transportation did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment.
