How the government shutdown might affect flights at DFW, ABIA and more

According to the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, air traffic controllers make sure that flights are always smooth, navigating two million aviation passengers per day or nearly one billion people per year. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

When you're aboard an airplane en route to your destination, you may assume only pilots are in control. In reality, air traffic controllers — not just pilots — play a critical role. According to the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, they manage more than 70,000 daily flights in the U.S.

But there is also a high demand for these roles. NATCA President Nick Daniels told CNBC that the U.S. has about 10,800 certified professional controllers, but needs approximately 14,600. And with an ongoing government shutdown, it seems delayed flights will be the norm for travelers.

"Any hiccup, a government shutdown or anything that disrupts the pipeline of the air traffic controllers coming in, will absolutely hurt the capacity of the flying public, and how many planes we can put in the air at any given time safely," Daniels said.

What is the role of an air traffic controller?

The primary responsibility of air traffic controllers is to prevent collisions both in the air and on the ground. According to the NATCA, air traffic controllers make sure that flights are always smooth, navigating 2 million aviation passengers per day or nearly 1 billion people per year.

Their role includes the following:

• They monitor aircraft positions using radar and GPS.
• They provide separation between planes by assigning different altitudes, headings, and speeds.
• They coordinate and direct air traffic within a range of three to 30 miles from the airport.

Without air traffic control, pilots would rely on their own judgment and radio communication with each other, leaving pilots more prone to errors.

Will the government shutdown affect air travel?

As of Oct.1, 2025, the U.S. government has shut down following Congress’s failure to pass a funding bill.

While essential services will remain operational, travelers are preparing for significant disruptions. From flight delays and passport processing backlogs to the closure of national parks and museums, traveling to, through or from the United States may become increasingly difficult.

Commercial flights are expected to operate as usual, and airline staff will remain unaffected.

However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has warned that a prolonged shutdown could lead to longer security lines at airports. Travelers are advised to allow additional time for screening and to check their flight status before departing for the airport.

What airports are affected by the government shutdown?

According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, airport travel from the Dallas-Fort Worth International hub and Dallas Love Field do not expect any impacts on flight operations.

Spokespersons for both airports suggested that it's business as usual for the airlines.

"Airports are considered essential services, and key federal employees such as air traffic controllers and security personnel would continue during a government shutdown. As always, we encourage customers to check directly with their airline for the most up-to-date flight information," said a spokesperson for Dallas-Fort Worth International.

According to data from the Federal Aviation Administration, none of Texas' major airports, including Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, are shutting down operations.

Is there a shortage of air traffic controllers in Texas?

Nationally, the FAA is estimated to be short more than 3,000 controllers, with only about 10,800 certified professionals working versus a need of up to 14,600.

Below is a look at aviation maps in Texas that are not 100 percent fully staffed. You can see other airports and their demand for air traffic controllers here.

As per data from the Aviation Administration, major airports in Texas have a demand for air traffic controllers at the major airports.

How much do air traffic controllers earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for air traffic controllers is $144,580 per year.

Applicants generally must have either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree from an Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program, several years of increasingly responsible work experience, or a combination of both education and experience. In addition, they must be U.S. citizens, pass medical and background screenings, and successfully complete training at the FAA Academy.