FAA Shortage & Shutdown Impact - FAA already facing a shortage of approximately 3,000 air traffic controllers who are now working without pay [1][3] - Increased sick calls are reported by the Department of Transportation, leading to major delays and greater shortages [1] - The shutdown is causing uncertainty, stress, fatigue, and frustration among air traffic controllers [3] - Burbank Airport experienced a period with no air traffic controllers on duty [4] Air Traffic Controller Concerns - Air traffic controllers are dealing with a short-staffed system and unreliable equipment [5] - Fatigue among air traffic controllers is expected to worsen as the shutdown continues, especially with concerns about zero dollar paychecks [8] - Air traffic controllers may seek additional income sources (e g, Uber, Door Dash) which could exacerbate fatigue and impact their performance [8][9] - The National Air Traffic Controllers Association emphasizes that air traffic controllers are caught in the crossfire of political issues [10] Operational Impact - The current situation is highlighting the impact of even a small number of staff absences on daily operations [7] - Over 45,000 planes and 3 million passengers are moved daily [5]