Air Traffic Control and TSA issues impacting travelers to and from Central Oregon

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The government shutdown's impact in flight reductions is leaving some air travelers scrambling to get to their destinations, including KTVZ News at Sunrise producer Silas Moreau.

It was the worst weekend for air traffic control staffing since the start of the federal government shutdown. More air traffic control staffing problems were reported this weekend than any other weekend, according to an analysis of Federal Aviation Administration operations plans.

There were nearly 150 staffing triggers. That means air traffic controllers had to alter operations to keep the airspace safe, with fewer people working. These steps can include rerouting planes or delaying flights.

Moreau was in Phoenix this weekend, where he missed his flight because of long security lines.

"I just was in line, and I just felt it in the air," he said. "I, I was just like, 'Oh, I can tell these people are angry, these people are sad, they want to get back to their families.'"

Silas's new flight was set for Monday night, so we'll see if he makes it back home.

The FAA has prohibited most private aircraft from using a dozen major airports amid the air traffic control staffing problems. Exceptions are being made for military and emergency aircraft. The air traffic control systems command center can also grant exemptions.