Controller shortages at Hollywood Burbank Airport cause delays amid government shutdown

The disruption extended beyond Burbank itself. Airlines had to manage crews and aircraft that were stranded or delayed, which impacted schedules for subsequent flights. The timing helped limit further impact since many affected planes were able to be parked overnight. Carriers serving Burbank include Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, JSX, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and United Airlines.

As Burbank is one of several airports in the Los Angeles area, airlines were able to rebook some passengers through alternate airports or provide compensation. However, these measures carry financial costs for carriers and may affect passenger confidence in operational reliability.

The incident highlights broader challenges within the U.S. air traffic control system. Controller shortages have led staff at major airports to work long hours and mandatory overtime as flight volumes increase and equipment ages. Other airports have also reported more requests for days off or sick leave among controllers during the shutdown period.

There are concerns that reduced staffing levels can compromise safety as well as capacity. For example, a previous shortage of tower staff at Washington National Airport was cited as a contributing factor in a January midair collision between an American Eagle CRJ700 and an Army Blackhawk helicopter when one person was required to manage two positions simultaneously.

The events at Hollywood Burbank Airport underline the need for action on staffing issues within control towers nationwide.