The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has revealed that nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers across the United States have been working without pay for over a month due to the ongoing government shutdown. This unprecedented situation has led to a significant ‘surge’ in absenteeism among controllers, resulting in widespread delays and cancellations at major airports nationwide. According to the FAA, half of the country’s 30 largest airports are grappling with severe staff shortages, with New York particularly affected—80% of its air traffic controllers were absent heading into the weekend. The FAA emphasized that the prolonged lack of compensation has placed controllers under immense stress and fatigue, jeopardizing both their well-being and the safety of air travel. To mitigate risks, the agency has reduced air traffic flow, which has already caused delays to approximately 6,000 flights and cancellations of nearly 500 on Friday alone, as reported by FlightAware. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted the financial strain on controllers, many of whom live paycheck to paycheck and are struggling with basic expenses like childcare and mortgages. The shutdown stems from a political deadlock, with Republicans and Democrats failing to agree on funding measures. Democrats are pushing for extended health insurance tax credits and a reversal of Medicaid cuts in exchange for reopening the government. The FAA has urged lawmakers to resolve the impasse promptly to ensure workers receive their due pay and travelers avoid further disruptions.