Particle.news
Download on the App Store
8 ARTICLES
·
4d ago

FAA Ground Stops, Delay Programs Hit Houston and Newark as Shutdown Strains Controller Staffing

The FAA says controller shortages tied to the shutdown are forcing deliberate traffic slowdowns to keep flights safe.

The Federal Aviation Administration has warned of possible delays at Houston's major airports.
Image
Image
“Good morning from IAH” - VictorGutierrez via Click2Pins

Overview

  • Ground Delay Programs limited arrivals to 34 per hour at Newark and 48 per hour at Houston’s Bush Intercontinental on Friday, producing average delays of about 55 minutes at EWR and 34 minutes at IAH.
  • The FAA confirmed it is throttling traffic when staffing falls short, with repeated ground stops in Houston this week including Tuesday evening at both airports and another halt at Bush on Thursday night.
  • FlightAware reported more than 4,200 flights delayed on Thursday, with notable impacts at Reagan National, Newark, LaGuardia, and Bush Intercontinental.
  • United Airlines and the Houston Airports System deferred questions to the FAA, while Southwest said it may adjust schedules when notified of controller staffing constraints.
  • Officials warned delays could worsen as unpaid controllers approach a missed paycheck next Tuesday during the fourth week of the federal shutdown.