San Diego International Airport experiences flight delays amid government shutdown

SAN DIEGO (NBC, KYMA) - The flight board at the San Diego International Airport showed many delays, and several travelers who have been impacted said they hope to get to their destinations safely.

There were long lines and multiple delays at the airport Sunday as the government shutdown continues.

"It looks pretty crowded," said Kevin Thomas, a traveler.

Travelers with destinations across the country kept a close eye on flight updates.

"Our flight was delayed coming out here and now it’s delayed leaving here," said Mark Scott, another traveler.

"We were supposed to leave about 3:35 [p.m.], so we've been getting pushed back and delayed," Thomas shared.

"I was set to leave at 5:15 [p.m.], now I'm going to leave at 5:38 [p.m.]," said Kasey Schroeder, another traveler.

The FAA said there has been increased staffing shortages across the system, slowing down traffic into some airports to ensure safe operations.

"You just kind of have to trust that the people who are showing up really know how to do their job," Schroeder expressed.

On Thursday, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy threatened to fire "problem children," air traffic controllers who fail to show up for work during the government shutdown.

"It's really frustrating I would say. It kind of gets annoying and then also our family plans got delayed also, and we had to figure out a new ride to get here," said Leah Lindborg, another traveler.

"We're just going to relax a little bit, maybe get a bite to eat," Scott remarked.

"As long as there's somewhere to sit, I'm pretty patient, as long as we don't get delayed till [Monday]," Thomas added.

"I hope it even makes it off the runway. I hope it doesn't get delayed more," Lindborg also added.

Travelers are hoping for the best in the air and in our nation's capital.