Atlanta’s air traffic controllers juggle flights and side hustles amid shutdown

Air traffic controllers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport say they’re being pushed to the brink as the government shutdown stretches on. Working without pay, some are picking up side gigs with Uber or DoorDash to make ends meet even as they help manage the world’s busiest airspace. Experts warn morale and safety could suffer if the shutdown continues.

1:47
AJC | Oct 30, 2025
Today's Video Headlines
More Videos

What killed thousands of fish in Atlanta?

Thousands of dead fish are under investigation. Credits: AJC | Chattahoochee Riverkeeper | Getty Images | City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management

FROM

Yolanda King on forging her own path beyond a historic last name

Yolanda King reflects on carving her own path beyond her grandfather's legacy. Credits: Keith Lovely Jr. , Yacine Ba / AJC | Getty Images

FROM

Yolanda King on her dream to deepen understanding of MLK Jr.’s legacy

Yolanda King reflects on her dream to help people better understand her grandfather’s legacy. Credits: Keith Lovely Jr. , Yacine Ba / AJC | Getty Images

FROM

Martin Luther King III shares the lesson his daughter taught him about being present

Martin Luther King III shares a story about the day his daughter taught him a lesson. Credits: Keith Lovely Jr. , Yacine Ba / AJC | Getty Images