Both IAH and HOU blame staffing shortages for average delays of approximately one hour through most of the night.

HOUSTON — The Federal Aviation Administration reported staffing-related delays for airline passengers across the country on Friday, including at both major airports in Houston.

Travelers flying in or out of Houston could face flight disruptions through Friday evening, according to the FAA.

In a 3 p.m. alert, the FAA warned ground delays averaging 58 minutes at Bush IAH are expected through 10 p.m. At 4:30 p.m., Flight Aware’s Misery Map showed over 100 delays there so far, which is 15% of its flights.

Hobby Airport (HOU) is also experiencing ground delays that are expected to last through 8 p.m. According to Flight Aware, inbound flights to Hobby are delayed at their origin an average of 1 hour and 7 minutes. Departure delays of an average of 39 minutes — and increasing — were also reported.


Thousands of nationwide flight delays

The alerts come as the government shutdown reaches Day 31, creating ripple effects across the aviation industry.

According to the Misery Map, there were more than 4,500 flight delays reported in or out of U.S. Airports by 4:30 p.m. on Friday.


Air traffic controllers miss first full paycheck

This week marked the first time air traffic controllers missed a full paycheck since the shutdown began over four weeks ago.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has been warning that travelers will see more flights delayed or canceled the longer they go without a paycheck. Most controllers are continuing to work mandatory overtime six days a week during the shutdown. Duffy says that leaves little time for a side job to help cover bills, mortgage and other expenses unless controllers call out.


What travelers should know

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.

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