WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. (WFSB) - The federal government shutdown entered its 36th day Wednesday, making it the longest in U.S. history.

The Transportation Department said it may need to close parts of U.S. airspace if not enough air traffic controllers report to work.

Controllers are classified as essential employees and must work during shutdowns despite not receiving paychecks.

More than 17,000 flights were delayed nationwide Tuesday, with nearly 800 cancellations.

Transportation Secretary said staffing shortages caused nearly half of Monday’s delays.

Transportation Security Administration employees face the same situation as air traffic controllers. Both groups are required to work without pay during the shutdown.

Many TSA and Federal Aviation Administration workers called out sick l

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