Charlotte Douglas braced for delays, cancellations

By Allen Wooten | The Center Square

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CHARLOTTE – Warnings for increased delays and possible cancellations reverberating through the airline industry because of the partial government shutdown include Charlotte, the world’s No. 6 airport in aircraft operations and North America’s No. 7 in passenger volume.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport needs about 100 air traffic controllers in roles of actively working, managing coordinators, or administrative. The exact number of TSA agents isn’t available publicly; the airport is home to more than 20,000 workers in various jobs.

A statement to travelers says, "Due to the partial government shutdown, Transportation Security Administration staffing levels may affect security wait times at CLT in the coming days. Travelers are encouraged to arrive early and allow additional time to pass through security screening.

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"We appreciate TSA and all our federal partners for their continued dedication and commitment to keeping the traveling public safe and helping passengers reach their destinations safely."

The trend has gotten better as the week progresses, according to tracking platform FlightAware.

Total delays in or out of Charlotte/Douglas were 471 on Sunday, 249 on Monday, 154 on Tuesday and 86 through noon Wednesday. Total cancellations in or out of the airport were 26 on Sunday, seven on Monday, six on Tuesday and three through noon Wednesday.

Total delays in or out of Raleigh-Durham International Airport were 131 on Sunday, 61 on Monday, 53 on Tuesday and 30 through noon Wednesday. Total cancellations for RDU were eight on Sunday, three on Monday, one on Tuesday and four through noon Wednesday.

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Alan Wooten has been a publisher, general manager and editor. His work has won national or state awards in every decade since the 1980s. He’s a proud graduate of Elon University and Farmville Central High in North Carolina.

The Shelby Independent.