MIAMI — Thousands of flights were delayed across the country Sunday as airports continued to grapple with staffing shortages made worse by the ongoing government shutdown.

Miami International Airport was among those affected, with travelers facing long lines and delayed departures.

Transportation Security Administration employees, who are considered essential workers, have been required to report to duty without pay. Many have called out sick, citing financial strain from unpaid bills, gas, and childcare costs.

“If I have nowhere to leave my kids, how am I going to come to work?” said Oksana Kelly, a TSA officer in Orlando.

According to FlightAware, more than 6,000 flights were delayed Sunday and over 500 were canceled. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said staffing issues account for as much as 53% of the delays.

Since the shutdown began Oct. 1, 222 staffing shortages have been reported nationwide — more than four times the number recorded during the same period last year.

“The longer the shutdown lasts, the more it distracts workers and makes the system less safe,” said Nick Daniels with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association.

Officials are urging travelers to expect longer security lines and monitor flights for schedule changes, as the disruptions come just weeks before the busy holiday travel season.

Flight delays mount nationwide as shutdown deepens staffing shortages

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Brett Knese