FAA issues ground stop, delay at BNA amid record passenger numbers and staffing challenges

Описание: Travelers at Nashville International Airport (BNA) are facing major delays, including a newly announced ground stop, amid the ongoing government shutdown.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a ground delay affecting both arrivals and departures at BNA, compounding the usual fall break crowds. Flights into Nashville are averaging delays of about two hours, with outbound flights also impacted.

The weekend before saw a record 100,000 passengers pass through the airport, adding to traveler frustration.

One passenger told FOX 17 News, “I know there’s been some instances of planes coming really close to each other or having to circle. I’m on a work trip right now, so I have concerns about being safe and also about getting home.”

The FAA issued a ground stop for all departures at 6:32 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. The ground delay that was previously issued expires at midnight.

The FAA has not confirmed whether a shortage of air traffic controllers is linked to the ongoing government shutdown, though both are affecting operations simultaneously.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) told FOX 17 News that while staffing shortages can happen any day, today’s delays highlight just how fragile the nation’s aviation system can be.

“It is normal for a few air traffic controllers to be called in sick on any given day, and this is the latest example of how fragile our aviation system is in the midst of a national shortage of these critical safety professionals. NATCA has consistently warned that the controller staffing shortage leaves the system vulnerable, and today’s events underscore the urgent need to accelerate training and hiring," said a representative of NATCA. “Nearly 11,000 fully certified controllers remain on the job, many working 10-hour shifts as many as six days a week, showing extraordinary dedication to safely guiding millions of passengers to their destinations–all without getting paid during this shutdown."

NATCA says they are working with the FAA to help mitigate disruptions moving forward.

“We are working with the Federal Aviation Administration to mitigate disruptions when they arise in the National Airspace System and will continue partnering with the Department of Transportation to supercharge controller hiring and ensure America’s aviation system remains the safest and most efficient in the world.”

Officials urge travelers to check flight status before heading to the airport.

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