DIA Moves to Pay Air Traffic Controllers Amid FAA Flight Cuts

UPDATE: Denver International Airport (DIA) is taking urgent measures to pay air traffic controllers as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announces a critical 10% reduction in flight capacity at 40 major airports starting Friday due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This decision comes just weeks before the busy Thanksgiving holiday travel surge, raising alarms among travelers and airport officials.

DIA officials requested a waiver from the FAA to use airport revenues to support controllers working without pay. They plan to seek reimbursement from the federal government once the shutdown concludes. “This is a critical time for travel,” stated DIA’s chief executive Phil Washington, emphasizing the unnecessary stress on air traffic controllers. “We hope to reduce hardship on them by covering their wages during the shutdown.”

The FAA’s announcement, made by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, highlights the need for staffing measures as air traffic controllers continue to work unpaid since the shutdown began on October 1. The FAA directs over 44,000 flights daily, impacting thousands of flights nationwide. “We need to keep this airspace as safe as possible,” Bedford said.

As DIA has experienced minimal delays so far, airport communications director Courtney Law warned that this could change rapidly. “We know that could change at any point as the shutdown continues,” Law stated. Travelers are advised to arrive at least two hours before boarding and check with airlines for updates.

In response to the shutdown’s toll, DIA has launched a “food and essentials pantry” for the 1,800 federal employees working without pay, including FAA controllers and TSA screeners. Donations of non-perishable food, toiletries, and monetary contributions are being accepted at specified locations within the airport. “As this shutdown continues, covering everyday expenses becomes increasingly challenging for many of the 1,800 federal workers,” Washington added.

Flight delays have sporadically occurred at some U.S. airports due to staffing shortages, and Southwest Airlines is currently evaluating potential impacts on its flight schedule. The airline urges Congress to resolve the shutdown and restore full National Airspace System operations.

With the current shutdown becoming the longest on record, weekend staffing shortages at air traffic control facilities have skyrocketed. A recent analysis revealed that staffing issues were reported at an average of 26.2 facilities during weekends since the shutdown began, sharply up from a pre-shutdown average of 8.3.

As the situation evolves, travelers are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for potential disruptions. The impact of these federal actions could be felt widely as air travel approaches its peak season.