Chicago airports are undergoing a major shortage of air traffic controllers. With fewer people guiding planes, travelers could see more delays and cancellations this summer. While pressure mounts, airport employees and city officials urge immediate assistance to prevent a travel disaster during the peak season.
Not Enough Hands in the Tower
If you’re planning to fly out of Chicago this summer, you might want to pack a little extra patience. O’Hare and Midway airports are dealing with a big problem: there just aren’t enough air traffic controllers to handle all the flights.
These are the people who guide planes safely in and out of the airport. Right now, there aren’t enough of them, and the ones who are still working are feeling the pressure.
Long Hours, Tired Workers
Many air traffic controllers are working extra shifts and longer hours just to keep things running. But they’re getting tired, and fast.
One controller said, “We’re all pushing through, but we’re running on empty. There’s just too much to do and not enough of us to do it.”
Delays in flights are thereby more possible, especially during peak hours.
Why It’s Hard to Fix
Hiring and training new air traffic controllers isn’t quick or easy. It takes a lot of time and effort to get someone ready for such a big job. During the pandemic, the hiring process slowed down, and now we’re seeing the results.
The problem is especially bad in Chicago, which is a major hub for flights all across the country. So when things slow down here, it can mess up travel plans everywhere.
What Leaders Are Saying
City officials know this is a serious issue. They’re asking the federal government to step in, hire more people, and speed up training.
They say if nothing is done soon, summer travel could become a nightmare for many passengers.
The Bottom Line
If you’re planning to travel soon, try booking early flights and allow extra time. Pick direct flights when possible, and keep an eye on your airline’s updates in case of delays.
Right now, air traffic controllers are doing their best with what they have. But without more help soon, Chicago travelers might be in for a rough ride this summer, not because of the weather, but because there just aren’t enough people to keep things moving safely in the skies.
