At National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)’s request, dozens of controllers at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport are handing out flyers to travelers to raise awareness of how the ongoing federal government shutdown is hitting them directly. FOX 5 Atlanta
With the shutdown now extending into its 28th day, many air traffic controllers have already missed their first full paycheck—a financial blow they say is compounding long-running staffing issues at the facility. FOX 5 Atlanta
Controllers say they’re facing personal financial strain: missed bills, concerns about mortgages and car payments, and even taking on second jobs just to make ends meet. FOX 5 Atlanta
Despite the pressures, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) maintains that flying remains safe. But they also acknowledge that in cases where staffing becomes too thin, control towers might implement slow-downs or reduce operations — a move that already appears to be affecting flights at Atlanta, with around 70 delays and 10 cancellations reported recently. FOX 5 Atlanta
In short: it’s not just the day-to-day lives of the controllers being disrupted. The broader travel system may also feel ripple effects unless the funding stalemate is resolved soon.
(Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)
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