The 35-day federal shutdown has produced critical staffing gaps among air traffic controllers and TSA workers, prompting warnings that major portions of U.S. airspace could be closed. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy cautioned that continued absences — estimated at up to 3,000 controllers — could cause "mass chaos," with widespread delays and cancellations. Union officials say the U.S. has about 10,800 certified controllers versus an expected 14,633, and resignations and sick calls are increasing. Authorities stress any airspace restrictions would be taken for safety reasons.
U.S. May Close Major Airspace as Controller Shortages Worsen During 35‑Day Shutdown
The 35-day federal shutdown has produced critical staffing gaps among air traffic controllers and TSA workers, prompting warnings that major portions of U.S. airspace could be closed. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy cautioned that continued absences — estimated at up to 3,000 controllers — could cause "mass chaos," with widespread delays and cancellations. Union officials say the U.S. has about 10,800 certified controllers versus an expected 14,633, and resignations and sick calls are increasing. Authorities stress any airspace restrictions would be taken for safety reasons.
02:01, 05.11.2025Security
Risk of Airspace Restrictions Grows as Shutdown Drags On
As the U.S. government shutdown enters its 35th day, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that persistent staffing shortages among air traffic controllers could force the department to close portions of U.S. airspace. Officials say closures in some regions could trigger a domino effect of delays and cancellations at airports nationwide.
Numbers and staffing shortfalls
Federal and union estimates indicate as many as 3,000 controllers are absent or effectively unpaid when they come to work. Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), reported roughly 10,800 certified controllers are on the job versus an expected staffing level of about 14,633.
What officials are saying
"You may see us close certain parts of the airspace because we just cannot manage it, because we don't have the air traffic controllers,"
Duffy said during a briefing in Washington, D.C., adding that the department will "restrict the airspace when we feel it's not safe," according to NBC News. He warned that if the shutdown continues another week, travelers should expect "mass chaos," including large-scale flight delays and cancellations.
Operational and human impacts
The lengthy shutdown has left air-traffic personnel and many Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees working without pay. Increasing numbers of staff have been calling in sick or leaving for other work, contributing to long security lines and a rising number of delayed flights.
- Some controllers and TSA staff have taken gig work—driving for ride-hailing services or delivering food—to cover living expenses.
- Union leaders say resignations are accelerating, and some controllers are reporting severe personal hardship that affects their ability to focus on safety-critical tasks.
- Officials emphasize that any decision to limit or close airspace would be a safety-driven response to staffing constraints, not a scheduling or cost decision.
Outlook
Transportation officials are monitoring staffing closely and say restrictions will be enacted only when they determine operations cannot be managed safely. Meanwhile, travelers should prepare for the possibility of growing delays and cancellations if the shutdown persists.
Source: This report was originally published by Men's Journal on Nov 4, 2025, and referenced statements from the Department of Transportation and NATCA representatives.