In the United States, more than 4,000 flights were delayed, with roughly 118 additional flights cancelled, as the 27-day government shutdown continues to disrupt air travel.

The delays come amid growing shortages of essential workers at airports and air traffic control towers nationwide. About 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration officers are working without pay, resulting in widespread operational strain.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) cited staffing shortages affecting flights across the Southeast and at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. The Transportation Department warned that while flights are continuing to operate, delays and cancellations are expected to persist as the shutdown drags on.