Missouri airports provide update on government shutdown impacts
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — The federal government has been shut down for more than a week, which means essential workers like TSA agents, National Weather Service employees and air traffic controllers are still on the job, but without pay.
On Tuesday, Oct. 7, multiple reports indicated, some air traffic control rooms were forced to close because of staffing issues, leading to flight delays.
CNN reported, operations in Nashville were shut down for up to five hours after an increased number of controllers called out sick. The Memphis regional air traffic control center helped manage the situation.
Delays can occur for a variety of reasons, including weather, low ceilings, computer issues and airplane maintenance. The FAA does maintain an active website showing which airports are experiencing delays and the reasons behind them.
Statewide and regionally, there have been no reports of delays due to air traffic controller staffing.
Locally, Kansas City International Airport has not experienced any disruptions.
In a statement from the public information officer of Kansas City, sent Tuesday, said:
"Aviation staff are committed to ensuring the continued safety of any passengers that fly through during the shutdown's duration. Aviation leadership are in conversation with federal partners over staffing and how that may impact air travel. So far, the FAA has not expressed concerns with employees not showing up for work, but due to unknown length of the shutdown, MCI is preparing for any possibilities.
MCI and the Kansas City Downtown Airport are not experiencing any impacts on day-to-day operations. Staff are monitoring security line wait times and encourage all travelers to closely monitor their flight status via their airline's website or www.flykc.com."
Travelers are advised to arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours early for international flights. During the government shutdown, officials recommend arriving even earlier.
News-Press NOW will update this story.
