Denver Seeks FAA Waiver Amid Air Traffic Chaos from Government Shutdown

By Michael Katz | Thursday, 06 November 2025 09:31 PM EST

The city of Denver has requested a waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to pay air traffic controllers in an effort to avoid flight reductions at the nation’s third-busiest airport. Denver International Airport is set to be affected by the FAA’s plan to reduce flight capacity by 10% at 40 major airports amid staffing shortages during the government shutdown.

The cuts are being phased in, with about 4% Friday, 6% Sunday, and up to 10% next week if the shutdown persists. Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, a Democrat, highlighted the airport’s critical role in the Rocky Mountain West, stating it is “maybe the largest economic driver” for the region. He emphasized its importance to both quality of life and economic health.

The airport, overseen by the city, requested a waiver on Wednesday to pay staff but has yet to receive a response. The government shutdown, now in its 38th day, has left air traffic controllers without pay for nearly five weeks, leading many to skip shifts or take second jobs. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged the risks of reduced capacity, stating the FAA is prioritizing safety while preparing for “additional disruptions.”

Denver anticipates reimbursement if the waiver is approved but warned of potential continued restrictions. Johnston argued that shutting down air travel would pose a greater threat to the economy than the current challenges. Denver’s airport handled over 82 million passengers in 2024, making it the third-busiest in the U.S. Tourism, a major state economic driver, contributed $28.5 billion in 2024 and employed over 188,000 people.

The FAA declined to comment directly but reiterated that staffing shortages have forced traffic reductions to ensure safety.