NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The Nashville International Airport (BNA) saw hundreds of delays Tuesday after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported staffing shortages in the airport’s control tower.
The lack of air traffic controllers led to over 250 delayed flights, impacting over 39,000 passengers, according to the FAA and the Metro Nashville Airport Authority.
As of Wednesday, the FAA said the Air Traffic Control Facility has returned to normal staffing levels and that there are no immediate staffing concerns.
This is all happening as the government enters day 8 of a shutdown, during which government workers — like air traffic controllers — aren't getting paid.
On Wednesday, flyers took their own precautions just in case.
"I got to the airport four hours before just because I didn't want to take any risk," said one traveler.
"We went to the airport extra early, just in case there were those long lines," added another.
The Department of Transportation says if your flight is significantly delayed or canceled, you always have the right to a refund.
However, if it's an "uncontrollable" circumstance like a government shutdown, those affected Tuesday may not receive bonuses they otherwise would, like free meals, hotels and transport.
If you were impacted, check with your individual airline to see what they may offer.
Do you have more information about this story? You can email us at Nikki.Hauser@newschannel5.com or Holly.Lehren@newschannel5.com.
This is a story I immediately went home and showed my boys - young athletes with big dreams. The Vanderbilt football team's success has stolen the spotlight - what I love about Steve Layman's story is he reveals the individual hardships it took to get there. As Clark Lea says, "we all have scuff marks." This team proves perseverance pays off!
- Carrie Sharp
