How US Shutdown Left Hollywood Burbank Airport Unmanned for Hours

A major US airport was left without air traffic controllers for hours. The Hollywood Burbank Airport’s control tower went unmanned on Monday. This was a direct result of the ongoing federal government shutdown.

The staffing gap created a significant aviation safety concern. Controllers were not physically present to guide planes. According to ABC News, air traffic control duties were temporarily transferred to a facility in San Diego.

FAA Confirms Staffing Shortage Amid Political Blame Game

The Federal Aviation Administration issued an official notice. It confirmed the staffing shortage at the Burbank tower. The lapse lasted from late afternoon until 10 PM local time.

This incident highlights the shutdown’s real-world impact. Essential personnel are working without pay. A Reuters report notes that 13,000 air traffic controllers are currently in this difficult position.

California Governor Gavin Newsom publicly criticized former President Donald Trump. He blamed Trump for the situation on social media. His post emphasized the direct link between the political impasse and the empty control tower.

Broader Airport Disruptions Loom as Shutdown Continues

The situation at Burbank may be a warning sign. Transportation officials report staffing cuts of up to fifty percent in some areas. The 2019 government shutdown provides a worrying precedent.

During that 35-day closure, many controllers and TSA officers called in sick. They did so because they were not receiving paychecks. This led to significant travel delays and security bottlenecks nationwide.

The current standoff centers on healthcare spending. Democrats and Republicans have failed to agree on a spending bill. Non-essential federal services have halted until a resolution is found.

The ongoing government shutdown air traffic control crisis demonstrates how political gridlock can directly threaten public safety and critical infrastructure. Aviation officials worry these staffing issues will only worsen the longer the shutdown persists.

Thought you’d like to know-

Which airport lost its air traffic controllers?

The Hollywood Burbank Airport in Los Angeles had its control tower left unmanned. This occurred for nearly six hours on a Monday. The FAA confirmed the staffing lapse due to the shutdown.

How are flights operating without controllers?

Air traffic control duties were transferred to Southern California TRACON. This facility is based in San Diego. Controllers there managed Burbank’s airspace remotely.

How many workers are affected?

Approximately 13,000 air traffic controllers are working without pay. Another 50,000 TSA officers are also in the same situation. These figures come from a Reuters analysis.

Has this happened before?

Yes, similar staffing issues arose during the 2019 government shutdown. That closure lasted 35 days. Many aviation security workers called in sick then as well.

What caused the government shutdown?

The shutdown started after a political standoff over healthcare spending. Republicans and Democrats could not agree on a new budget. This led to a lapse in federal funding.