UPDATE: Starting at 4:15 p.m. today, Hollywood Burbank Airport is set to operate without any air traffic controllers due to the ongoing government shutdown, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The airport will remain unstaffed until at least 10 p.m., leading to potential disruptions for travelers.
Officials confirm that air traffic controllers will leave their posts, transferring their responsibilities to the Southern California TRACON team based in San Diego. This unexpected staffing gap raises concerns about safety and efficiency at the airport, as controllers are crucial for managing aircraft landings and takeoffs.
As the government shutdown extends into its sixth day, travelers are urged to prepare for possible delays. The FAA has indicated that staffing shortages could trigger ground delays at major airports, including those in Denver, Detroit, Indianapolis, and Phoenix. While 13,200 air traffic controllers and more than 61,000 TSA employees remain on duty, the repercussions of unpaid work could soon escalate.
Jeffrey Price, an aviation professor at the Metropolitan State University of Denver, warns that the situation could worsen. “The system does become a little bit more brittle,” he stated, emphasizing how prolonged disruptions lead to longer security lines and potential flight interruptions.
The current shutdown mirrors previous instances, such as in 2018-2019, when air traffic controllers called in sick due to unpaid wages, resulting in significant operational challenges. Miami International Airport even faced terminal closures during that period as TSA officers reported sick at double the usual rates.
As the shutdown continues, travelers at Burbank Airport and across the country should remain vigilant and stay informed. The FAA is monitoring the situation closely and may implement slowdowns for landings and takeoffs if necessary.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, and consider adjusting travel plans if you are flying from Hollywood Burbank Airport this evening.
