ATLANTA (AP) — Hundreds of flights were canceled or delayed Tuesday following severe storms that swept across the eastern United States. Travelers faced long lines at airport security due to a partial government shutdown that has strained TSA staffing levels. Over 550 flights were grounded, with delays impacting major airports like New York's LaGuardia, Chicago O'Hare, and Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson.
As families return from spring break vacations, some passengers like Kelly Price, who was stuck at the airport overnight, reported sleeping on the floor after their flights were canceled. We’re all tired and frustrated she said, with available rebookings pushing into the next day.
Airports like Hartsfield-Jackson and Charlotte Douglas had ground stops imposed by the FAA due to the storm system's hazardous conditions, which included forecasts calling for high winds and potential tornadoes. Danielle Cash found herself stranded in St. Louis and spent more than planned on a hotel room after severe weather disrupted her trip.
Adding to the chaos, the TSA has reported longer security lines as staffing shortages cause delays, with more than 300 workers quitting during the ongoing shutdown. Many TSA workers are struggling financially, forced to take on second jobs as they cope with financial strain from missing paychecks.
In anticipation of further challenges, travelers are advised to arrive at least three hours early for flights departing from especially hard-hit areas. Activists and union leaders continue to advocate for TSA workers needing immediate financial support and relief from government restrictions affecting their compensation.
As families return from spring break vacations, some passengers like Kelly Price, who was stuck at the airport overnight, reported sleeping on the floor after their flights were canceled. We’re all tired and frustrated she said, with available rebookings pushing into the next day.
Airports like Hartsfield-Jackson and Charlotte Douglas had ground stops imposed by the FAA due to the storm system's hazardous conditions, which included forecasts calling for high winds and potential tornadoes. Danielle Cash found herself stranded in St. Louis and spent more than planned on a hotel room after severe weather disrupted her trip.
Adding to the chaos, the TSA has reported longer security lines as staffing shortages cause delays, with more than 300 workers quitting during the ongoing shutdown. Many TSA workers are struggling financially, forced to take on second jobs as they cope with financial strain from missing paychecks.
In anticipation of further challenges, travelers are advised to arrive at least three hours early for flights departing from especially hard-hit areas. Activists and union leaders continue to advocate for TSA workers needing immediate financial support and relief from government restrictions affecting their compensation.
