Payam Javan: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) continued to face significant operational disruptions on October 8, marking the third consecutive day of widespread flight delays across major U.S. airports, including Reagan Washington National and Newark Liberty International. The delays stemmed from ongoing staffing shortages among air traffic controllers, as the federal government shutdown entered its eighth day.

By 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time, nearly 3,000 flights had been delayed nationwide, following a total of 10,000 delays recorded earlier in the week. The FAA attributed the disruptions to the absence of key personnel at air traffic control centers, which has forced the agency to slow flight operations in multiple regions. The cascading delays have intensified travel challenges for thousands of passengers amid the prolonged budget standoff in Washington.

Despite the shutdown, approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers remain on duty as “essential employees,” though they have not been receiving pay. The lack of compensation has heightened stress and absenteeism among the workforce, further straining aviation operations across the country.

The FAA confirmed that controllers are scheduled to receive a partial paycheck on October 14 for work performed prior to the shutdown. However, with no resolution in sight, industry analysts warn that continued staffing shortages could lead to escalating flight disruptions and broader impacts on the national transportation system if the government impasse persists.