AUSTIN, Texas–Austin-Bergstrom International Airport experienced flight delays over the weekend due to the shortage of air traffic controllers.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) understaffing affected operations during a busy travel period.
Passengers faced delays, some lasting up to two and a half hours, according to flight tracking services.
Passenger numbers have surged as the holiday season approaches, adding pressure to the airport’s capacity.
The FAA said while understaffing contributed, weather and high passenger volume also caused disruptions.
Congressman Lloyd Doggett criticized the FAA for insufficient staffing levels.
He expressed concern about travel safety and efficiency at the Austin airport due to the low number of air traffic controllers.
Doggett urged the FAA to prioritize addressing the issue in Austin. He claimed the local shortage of controllers is particularly acute, comparing it unfavorably to national trends.
The FAA, in response, stated that it met its hiring goals by bringing in 1,500 air traffic controllers in 2023, and 1,811 this year.
For the coming year, the agency plans to hire over 2,000 controllers. The agency is also speeding up its hiring process and enhancing training programs to prepare new staff for operational duties.