(MENAFN) More than 9,000 flights throughout the United States experienced delays or cancellations on both Monday and Tuesday, according to data released by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

These widespread travel disruptions were primarily the result of a diminished workforce of air traffic controllers, a consequence of the ongoing partial government shutdown.

The shutdown commenced on October 1 after lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties were unable to reach consensus on a federal spending bill.

Although the majority of federal employees have been placed on furlough, air traffic controllers are classified as essential personnel.

This means they are required to continue working without immediate compensation, though their salaries are promised retroactively.

Despite these obligations, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged that there has been a noticeable increase in the number of air traffic controllers calling in sick since the shutdown started.

The union representing air traffic controllers, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)—which advocates for 20,000 professionals—stated that it is collaborating with the FAA to minimize disruptions within the National Airspace System.

“It is normal for a few air traffic controllers to call in sick on any given day, and this is the latest example of how fragile our aviation system is in the midst of a national shortage of these critical safety professionals,” NATCA said in a statement on Monday.

The union also emphasized, “NATCA has consistently warned that the controller staffing shortage leaves the system vulnerable, and today’s events underscore the urgent need to accelerate training and hiring.”

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