America's air traffic controller shortage is even worse during the government shutdown—but job candidates can make $145,000 per year

Air traffic control room (Credit: Wayne Eastep / Getty Images)

The U.S. government shutdown is affecting the livelihood of thousands of air traffic controllers, as they’re expected to keep working without a paycheck. It’s led to major staffing shortages and employees calling out sick, delaying flights and packing airports with travelers anxious about safety risks. 

Airports all around the country—from Newark and Phoenix to Denver and Los Angeles—are all experiencing staffing issues. In California, Hollywood Burbank Airport had no air traffic controllers at its tower from 4:15 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday as it grappled with the issue. About 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers were required to show up to work, despite not being paid. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said air traffic staffing has been cut by 50% in some areas since the government shutdown started last week.