Air traffic control tower at Reagan National Airport [KDCA] [Shutterstock/Eli Wilson]
Key Takeaways:
During a government shutdown, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford praised essential staff but reminded air traffic controllers (ATCs) and other critical personnel they must continue working without pay.
The agency has noted an uptick in ATCs calling out sick, leading to warnings from the Transportation Secretary about potential firings for repeated absences.
Due to staffing shortages and to maintain safety, the FAA is implementing new air traffic limits, reducing departures and arrivals in affected regions and airports, which has already caused delays nationwide.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford praised the agency’s staff for its resilience this week while reminding air traffic controllers (ATCs) and other essential staff that they must keep reporting for work, even without a paycheck.
In a message to staff, Bedford expressed “sincere gratitude” to the employees of the FAA and said the American “way of life” depends on its service.
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Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.
