Delays Persist at Harry Reid International as Shutdown Backlog Hits Airport

Flight operations at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas are still facing significant disruptions, despite Congress advancing a measure to end the federal government shutdown. On Tuesday morning, the airport recorded 47 cancellations and 35 delays, according to flight tracker service FlightAware.

The ongoing backlog stems from regulatory and staffing shortfalls at the Federal Aviation Administration. Inspectors and air-traffic personnel, some unpaid during the shutdown, have created a lag in required safety checks and clearances. Aviation officials say it may take several days for flight schedules to fully stabilize, even after the shutdown ends.

Southwest Airlines flights comprised nearly half of the disruptions at the airport. The carrier reported 27 cancellations and 23 delays as part of the broader reduction in operations amid national aviation constraints.

Passengers are advised to confirm flight status with airlines and allow extra time for potential delays. Airport officials have acknowledged that while the challenges are serious, they are not expected to compromise overall safety; the FAA continues to monitor the situation as staffing and backlog issues are resolved.

Original source: Las Vegas Review-Journal