CHICAGO (WGN) – On Tuesday, some air traffic controllers at O’Hare Airport came together to highlight the dangers and staffing challenges brought on by the government shutdown.
The air traffic controllers organized an informational event at the airport, distributing leaflets and urging Congress and President Trump to approve a budget and end the shutdown.
This is the sixth government shutdown since 1990 and employees got backpay each time. However, controllers said an IOU isn’t what’s best.
“We are dedicated professionals. We will show up to work and ensure that we perform the duties we were employed to do, but going without pay adds a certain level of stress,” said air traffic controller Peter LeFevre.
Every day, air traffic controllers are responsible for tens of thousands of flights across the country.
Chicago’s airports alone have nearly 3,000 daily takeoffs and landings.
“We will never jeopardize safety. We just want an end to the government shutdown,” LeFevre said.
Air traffic controllers also said they’re woefully understaffed at 10,800 right now, as a fully staffed group would be closer to 14,000.
“We’re navigating uncharted territory,” said Joe Schwieterman, a professor at DePaul University and an expert in transportation. “Even losing a small number of personnel can initiate changes like increasing the spacing between flights, potentially resulting in significant delays.”
For airline workers, the delays on the ground at Capitol Hill are unacceptable.
“This situation is outrageous,” said Capt. Jason Ambrosi with the Air Line Pilots Association, International. “We elect lawmakers to go to DC to perform their responsibilities, fund the government, resolve the shutdown, and get everyone back to work and paid.”
For some passengers, it’s another potential frustration for flying.
“How can planes stay in the air without air traffic control?” a passenger questioned. “It’s an extremely stressful role. Handling aircraft on the tarmac, in the air, landing, and taking off is tough. It’s unfortunate they aren’t receiving payment for their vital work, and it’s unfair.”
The Air Traffic Controllers Association said if the shutdown does not end, the next paycheck they would expect on Oct. 28 will not be there.
