A shortage of air traffic controllers due to the government shutdown is causing delays at U.S. airports. Nearly 10,000 flights were delayed earlier this week, prompting the FAA to slow or halt arrivals at certain airports. The shutdown, now in its eighth day, is exacerbating concerns about the strain on air traffic controllers who are working without pay.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned of an uptick in sick calls among air traffic controllers. The lack of funding has caused staffing issues, with controllers working long hours without pay. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association highlighted the dedication of controllers working to guide passengers safely while facing financial uncertainties.

Despite concerns over staffing triggers at airports like Newark, delays have not materialized. Duffy urged Congress to pass a funding bill to resolve the shutdown. Essential workers, including air traffic controllers, are working without pay, while others are furloughed. A previous shutdown in 2018 ended after a shortage of controllers caused travel chaos in New York.

Read more at CNBC: Air traffic control shortages add to U.S. flight delays, FAA says