Shutdown Makes ATC Staffing Crisis Worse, Thousands of Flights Delayed

On October 25, 2025, more than 20 cases of air traffic controller shortages were reported at airports across the US, highlighting the growing strain on the nation’s aviation system amid the ongoing federal government shutdown.

The ATC staffing crisis triggered widespread flight delays and cancellations as controllers, many of whom have been working without full pay since the shutdown began on October 1, faced financial and emotional stress.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), 22 official alerts were issued that day due to insufficient controller staffing, marking one of the highest levels recorded since the shutdown began.

Flight tracking service FlightAware reported more than 5,300 delayed flights nationwide on October 25 and over 2,500 by 12:00 PM ET the next day.

Even before the shutdown, the FAA was already short of the number of air traffic controllers compared to its staffing goals. The ongoing work stoppage has made the situation worse, threatening to create even more severe disruptions as the next missed paycheck date of October 28 approaches.

To understand what caused the US government shutdown and its broader impact on travel and tourism, read our explainer.

Photo by Braden Egli on Unsplash