As the federal government shutdown continues, air traffic controllers are experiencing significant financial distress, missing their first full paychecks. Various airports are reporting increased flight delays and disruptions, attributed to staffing shortages resulting from the shutdown. Controllers are advocating for public support to end the shutdown, with some resorting to alternative employment such as DoorDash and Uber. Concerns about air travel safety are mounting, as flight disruptions worsen and the potential for future ground stops looms. The situation has garnered attention from Congress, which must act to ensure controllers receive their salaries and restore normalcy to the air travel system.