Transportation secretary says figure is ‘one of the highest we’ve seen’ since 1 October as shutdown drags on
US airports have reported more than 20 incidents of air traffic controller shortages on Saturday, said Sean Duffy, transportation secretary, in the latest sign of the government shutdown’s impact.
A ground stop was issued by the agency at Los Angeles international airport due to the air traffic controller staffing shortages at around 11.30am ET (15.30 GMT). The restriction covered most of the southern California region and delays are likely when flights resume.
By noon ET on Sunday, the agency had recorded shortfalls in air traffic controllers at six US airports.
The Trump administration warned flight disruptions are expected to increase as the shutdown drags on.
