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Passengers across the United States are preparing for increasing disruptions as airport staffing shortages continue to worsen during the ongoing government closure, now reaching its seventh consecutive day.

Escalating Worries Over Aviation System

Labor leaders for flight controllers and security screeners have warned that the situation is likely to deteriorate, with workforce issues documented at several major airports including locations such as Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Nashville and Philadelphia.

"The risk of wider impacts to the US aviation system continues to increase by the day," commented aviation expert Henry Harteveldt.

He voiced serious worry that should the closure persist, it could possibly interfere with countless American Thanksgiving travel plans in November.

Travel Disruptions and Operational Challenges

Staffing shortages, including an elevated number of workers taking sick leave, affected key facilities around New York, Los Angeles and Denver on Monday, resulting in delays for over 6,000 flights nationwide.

• Burbank airport's air traffic control was temporarily closed and responsibilities were managed by another facility
• The Nashville facility reported delays of approximately two hours due to staffing issues
• Chicago's O'Hare showed average delays of 41 minutes
• Dallas-Fort Worth experienced postponements recorded at half an hour

Sector Reaction and Union Position

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association stressed that it does not support any organized actions that could adversely impact the national flight network.

The union stated that flight controllers take their responsibility to ensure passenger security very seriously and engaging in any work stoppage could result in termination of employment.

Official Viewpoint

Transportation Secretary the transportation official warned that the national flight control network is being harmed from the continuing federal closure.

"They aren't only thinking about the airspace," he commented regarding flight controllers who are not receiving salaries. "They're thinking about, 'Am I going to get a paycheck'?"

He noted that many operators depend on regular income and are unable to manage extended periods without compensation.

Wider Consequences

According to emergency preparations, roughly a quarter of the workforce, or over eleven thousand aviation administration workers, were temporarily laid off when the closure started last week.

Nevertheless, 13,000 air traffic controllers continue working, with hiring and training continuing as well.

Labor leader Nick Daniels pointed out that the closure has highlighted existing challenges encountered by air traffic controllers, including workforce gaps and outdated equipment.

He explained that the circumstances is particularly grave at regional facilities where reduced personnel creates additional challenges.

Despite the extensive postponements, flight data showed that approximately 92% of departures from American airports departed as scheduled as of Tuesday afternoon.

The aviation regulator had not activated a "staffing trigger" that would decrease the number of flights in and out of airports, suggesting that activities were continuing despite the difficulties.