As the US government shutdown moves into its second week, airports across the country are facing disruption.

Flight delays and cancellations are increasing as a growing shortage of air traffic controllers begins to take a serious toll on operations.

Reports indicate that many air traffic controllers are calling in sick, citing heightened stress and financial strain caused by the shutdown. At some airports, staffing levels have reportedly fallen to just 50% at times, creating significant operational challenges.

The staffing crisis has already led to widespread delays at major hubs including Newark, Phoenix, Denver, Las Vegas, Nashville, Dallas, and Chicago, with over three thousand flights delayed so far by 30-60 minutes. If the situation persists, we could see significant disruption to air cargo operations.

The federal government entered a partial shutdown after Congress failed to pass funding legislation last week, halting many non-essential government functions. Although air traffic controllers are deemed essential personnel and are required to work during shutdowns, they are not receiving pay – intensifying pressure on a workforce that was already stretched thin due to budgeting cuts.

For now, the effects on ocean freight remain limited. While certain administrative processes involving US Customs, the FDA, and the EPA have slowed, cargo continues to move. However, an extended shutdown could eventually lead to more pronounced delays in ocean freight operations as well.

The team at Westbound will be keeping a close eye on this developing story and will advise if any major updates emerge.

If you have any questions regarding the above, then Westbound are here to help. So, please do not hesitate to contact us.