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Flight Delays Soar Amid Government Shutdown Crisis

10/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy urged air traffic controllers to report for duty amid the ongoing government shutdown.
Staffing-related flight delays have risen to 53%, up from a historical average of 5%.
Duffy acknowledged the financial strain on controllers, noting many are working unpaid.
The Essential Air Service program could run out of funds by Sunday, potentially isolating around 200 areas if the shutdown continues.

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Story summary

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy urged air traffic controllers to report for duty amid the ongoing government shutdown.
Staffing-related flight delays have risen to 53%, up from a historical average of 5%.
Duffy acknowledged the financial strain on controllers, noting many are working unpaid.
The Essential Air Service program could run out of funds by Sunday, potentially isolating around 200 areas if the shutdown continues.