In fact, the Conversation writes that in-flight “technical issues” are part and parcel of flying the friendly skies and airplanes are equipped with layers of redundancy measures and warning systems to alert pilots, who train extensively to handle in-flight fiascos. Studies show that air travel is still the safest mode of transport.

When there's a shortage of air traffic controllers, the FAA reduces the number of takeoffs and landings to ensure the on-duty personnel aren't overwhelmed and the system remains safe. But that can creates flight delays and cancellations.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has warned that air traffic controllers are experiencing increased pressure at work amid the government shutdown for which Republicans and Democrats are both holding each other responsible.

As the ninth day of the government shutdown wears on, the focus is on how many air traffic controllers show up to work tonight.

Delta CEO Ed Bastian also revealed that, due to aging air traffic control systems, it actually takes longer today to fly from Atlanta to LaGuardia than it did in the 1950s when the airline opened that route.

In a statement, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy called the missing employees ‘problem children,’ saying their absence was causing major flight disruptions amid the US govt shutdown

The Federal Aviation Administration is again reporting short staffing at air traffic control operations as the government shutdown continues in its eighth day.