CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - With the government shutdown continuing into its fifth week, air travel may become more challenging.

Travel experts are recommending that people stay up-to-date on their flight status and have a backup plan. Flight disruptions are expected to increase as the shutdown not only continues, but air traffic controllers are also expected to miss their first full paycheck on Tuesday.

"You know, I mean, nobody wants to work for free. Their job is stressful as it is. And then to add the stress of no paycheck on top of that," said Terry Burgick of Southwick.

As the government shutdown drags on, the strain on federal workers, including those critical to aviation safety and security, is working without pay, leading to increased sick calls and slowdowns at airports nationwid

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