Transportation Secretary: Air traffic controllers are 'stressed out' amid the government shutdown

Government Shutdown Impact on Air Traffic Control - Government shutdown is causing stress among air traffic controllers due to potential paycheck delays, impacting their ability to work overtime and maintain safety [2][3][7] - The shutdown is exacerbating existing staffing shortages, with the air traffic control system already short over 2,000 controllers [12] - Potential furloughs of support staff could disrupt training for new controllers, hindering efforts to address the controller deficit [16][17] - Airlines are currently managing the issues, but prolonged delays could lead to public outcry and pressure to end the shutdown [19][20] Air Traffic Controller Workforce - Air traffic controllers are working with outdated equipment, some of which is 20-50 years old [3] - The industry is actively working to increase the throughput of the academy by 20% to address the shortage of controllers [13] - The time frame for a candidate to enter the academy has been reduced to attract more applicants [14] - Air traffic controllers can earn significant income, with potential earnings up to $400,000 per year with overtime in areas like New York [13] Funding and Infrastructure - The industry needs $31 billion to revamp the air traffic control system, with $125 billion already secured [20][21]