Post by : Rameen Ariff

Orlando, FL — Travelers faced major disruptions at Orlando International Airport (MCO) Thursday night as flights were delayed an average of 2.7 hours due to ongoing staffing shortages. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a ground delay from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. ET, citing insufficient certified air traffic controllers as the primary cause.

Earlier in the evening, arriving flights were temporarily unable to land as the airport struggled to maintain minimum staffing levels. The FAA later confirmed an “increase in staffing” at the F11 Central Florida Tracon, helping to ease the backlog of flights.

A spokesperson for MCO explained that the ground delay was necessary to manage arrivals safely amid staffing shortfalls. Passengers were warned to expect delays averaging 2½ hours as the airport adjusted flight schedules to maintain safety.

This latest disruption comes amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, which has left many air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees working without pay. Similar delays were reported at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, where ground delays averaged 90 minutes.

Travelers are advised to check with airlines for updated schedules and prepare for extended wait times. Airport officials emphasized that safety remains the top priority, despite the frustration caused by extended delays.

The situation at Orlando International Airport underscores the broader impact of staffing shortages on U.S. air travel, as airports nationwide continue to grapple with delays, cancellations, and operational challenges during the federal impasse.

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