Flight Delays Reported Across US Airports as Air Traffic Control Staff Work Unpaid
Travelers across the United States are facing long delays at multiple airports as air traffic controllers continue to work without pay amid a government shutdown. Notably, Nashville International Airport and Burbank Airport have experienced significant disruptions, with staff callouts cited as a primary cause of the delays. The situation remains ongoing, with no definitive end date.
Was your flight affected?
Multiple airports across the United States are experiencing continued flight delays as air traffic controllers report for work unpaid, following the ongoing government shutdown. The situation has contributed to operational strain, with locations such as Nashville International Airport and Burbank Airport notably affected. On Tuesday, staff callouts at Nashville caused pronounced delays, highlighting the pressure placed upon airport operations under current circumstances.
Burbank Airport in California also reported similar delays, linking the disruptions directly to air traffic control personnel shortages due to employees not receiving wages during the shutdown. The absence of pay has resulted in an increased number of staff unable to report for duty, which in turn impacts flight schedules and passenger wait times.
At this time, the disruption is ongoing, with normal operations contingent on a resolution to the broader issue impacting government employees. The scale of the delays, as well as the number of flights and passengers affected, has not been specified. Passengers are urged to check with airlines and airports for the latest status updates and to allow extra time when traveling through affected regions.
The scenario underscores the critical dependency of air travel on fully staffed and operational air traffic control centers, and the impacts government-related disruptions can have on the broader traveling public.
Know your rights
In situations such as a technical outage or a government shutdown, it’s important for passengers to understand their rights and available options during travel disruptions.
While these events are generally beyond the control of airlines and airports, passengers still have certain protections under U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.
Refund or rebooking
If a flight is canceled or experiences a significant delay, passengers are entitled to a full refund if they choose not to travel. Most airlines also offer rebooking on the next available flight at no additional cost.
Food and essential care
Some airlines may also provide additional assistance — such as meal vouchers or hotel accommodation during overnight delays — but this is not required by law and varies depending on the airline’s individual policies
Quick facts
Disruption:
Delay
Cause:
Other
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Status:
Current disruption
Airports affected:
Nashville International Airport, Burbank Airport
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
9 October 2025