Flight disruptions continued at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Thursday, even as the federal government resumed operations after a record 43-day shutdown.
Across Terminal 4, passengers dealt with extended waits, crowded gates and shifting schedules. Many travelers had been preparing for smooth flights after the shutdown ended, but nationwide staffing shortages — particularly among air traffic controllers — have kept delays high. Federal officials reported thousands of delays the previous weekend linked to low staffing levels, which built up during weeks without pay.
Sky Harbor recorded more than 70 delays and over 50 cancellations Thursday, according to flight-tracking data. Major carriers adjusted routes throughout the day as they navigated federally mandated capacity limits still in place.
The FAA has temporarily capped flight reductions at 6% as staffing levels slowly stabilize, meaning airports across the U.S. remain constrained even with government operations restored.
Airport workers have also felt the impact. Irregular arrival times, including late-night landings, have put pressure on support staff and disrupted normal shifts. Workers who rely on tips reported a noticeable dip in income as flights shifted into different time blocks.
Though TSA screening has remained relatively smooth with short wait times, significant delays continue once passengers move into the gate areas.
Airport officials said there is no projected timeline for when conditions will fully return to normal. Travelers are encouraged to check flight status frequently and monitor updates from airlines, as schedules may continue to change with short notice.
Despite the ongoing challenges, some passengers expressed understanding for federal employees who spent weeks working without pay during the shutdown. Retroactive pay is expected to reach many workers beginning in mid-November.
Sky Harbor advises all passengers to verify departures before heading to the airport and to review the latest updates on the airport’s official website.
