More than 8000 flights have been delayed across the US as air traffic controller absences continue to disrupt travel and a federal government shutdown reaches its 26th day.

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the Federal Aviation Administration experienced air traffic control staffing issues at 22 locations on Saturday.

He said additional shortages were expected to lead to more flight delays and cancellations in the days ahead.

According to FlightAware, a flight-tracking website, there were more than 8000 US flight delays by 11pm ET on Sunday (0400 GMT on Monday), an increase from about 5300 on Saturday.

Delays have often been above average since the government shutdown began on October 1.

Southwest Airlines had 45 per cent, or 2000 flights delayed on Sunday, while American Ai

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