U.S. Airports Experience Ground Stops, Flight Delays

Several major airports across the United States experienced widespread flight delays and temporary ground stops over the weekend due to staff shortages among air traffic controllers, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed.

At Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, a ground delay was issued on Sunday and lasted until early Monday, causing average delays of over 80 minutes. San Francisco International Airport also reported similar disruptions, with flights delayed by an average of 44 minutes.

Other major airports, including those in Los Angeles, Boston, Las Vegas, Dallas, Washington D.C., and Chicago, faced delays ranging from 15 to 30 minutes as the FAA implemented traffic management measures to maintain safe operations.

The FAA attributed the disruptions to limited air traffic control staffing, compounded by weather challenges and high weekend traffic volumes. The agency said it is working to address the staffing shortfall and prevent future disruptions.

Aviation analysts warned that the situation highlights growing pressure on the U.S. airspace system, noting that persistent staff shortages could lead to further travel disruptions as the holiday season approaches.

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