More than 9,000 flights were postponed in the United States this weekend as the government shutdown entered its fifth week, causing widespread disruptions at major airports.
Secretary of Transport Sean Duffy warned that the crisis could deepen as unpaid air traffic controllers and security officers put pressure on the system. “You will see delays. Flights will be canceled to make sure the system is safe,” he said ABC Newsand added: “If the government doesn’t open up in the next two weeks, we will look back as if these were the good days, not the bad days.”
Passengers faced long lines and exhaustion Orlando to Houston. Photos showed travelers sleeping on the floor Orlando International Airportwhile that of Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport saw a three-hour wait at security, with only two checkpoints open, according to KTRK TV.
Bee Newark Liberty Internationalflights were limited to 20 arrivals per hour, and Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport experienced an average delay of 98 minutes, with some aircraft on the ground for more than two hours.
According to Flight consciousmore than 5,600 flights were postponed on Sunday 4,600 on Saturday And 6,200 on Friday. More than 30% of flights depart Houston And Newark were affected. Staff shortages were also reported Denver And Jacksonville.
The shutdown, now in its 33rd dayapproaching the longest in US history. Airlines leaders are calling for immediate action. “A prolonged shutdown will lead to more delays and cancellations – and the American people deserve better,” a spokesperson said US airlines spokesperson said Fox News. Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines And Delta executives renewed calls to reopen the government.
With the busy Thanksgiving season approaching, the AAA advised travelers to book early, fly in the morning and allow extra time at airports.
As Duffy warned, “We will stop traffic if necessary. Safety comes first – even if it means grounding the nation.”
