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Crew call-outs cause major disruptions to state ferry service, 72% not in operation
KOMO • • nation
Key Points:
- Washington State Ferries (WSF) is experiencing significant crew shortages due to a high number of sick calls, with 23 engine room employees calling in sick on Monday morning, leading to major service disruptions.
- As a result, 13 of the 18 ferries, or 72% of the fleet, are currently out of service, causing cancellations and reduced service on key routes including Anacortes/San Juans, Seattle/Bremerton, and Edmonds/Kingston.
- WSF stated that qualified employees were contacted to fill shifts but all declined, prompting speculation among riders about a possible "silent strike."
- The agency is investigating the causes of the high callouts and difficulties in staffing, while urging riders to check travel alerts for the latest updates due to the fluid situation.
- WSF acknowledged the disruption to thousands of commuters and emphasized their commitment to restoring safe and reliable service as soon as possible.
