The FAA says Houston’s airports could face ground delays after 4 p.m. as air traffic controllers miss their first full paycheck of the government shutdown.
HOUSTON — Travelers flying through Houston could face major flight disruptions Tuesday afternoon. The Federal Aviation Administration is warning of a possible ground-delay plan or even a total ground stop for the city’s airports starting after 4 p.m.
The alert comes as the government shutdown reaches Day 28, creating ripple effects across the aviation industry.
Nationwide flight delays piling up
According to FlightAware’s “Misery Map,” there were more than 1,000 flight delays reported nationwide between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Monday. That’s just a portion of the roughly 3,300 delays recorded in the past 24 hours.
The FAA’s possible ground stop for Houston could add even more strain to already backed-up airports across the country.
Air traffic controllers miss first full paycheck
Today marks the first time air traffic controllers will miss a full paycheck since the shutdown began nearly four weeks ago.
A source tells CBS News that lawmakers are considering a new approach — narrower funding bills that could include measures to pay air traffic controllers and military members even as the broader shutdown continues.
What travelers should know
If the FAA’s plan is implemented, flights at George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and Hobby Airport (HOU) could face extensive delays or cancellations.
Passengers are urged to:
Check flight status before heading to the airport.Allow extra travel time in case of long security or boarding delays.Stay tuned to official FAA and airline updates throughout the day.