UPDATE: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has just announced drastic flight cuts at 40 major U.S. airports starting this Friday, due to the ongoing government shutdown. This urgent measure aims to reduce air traffic by 10% in high-volume markets, impacting travel across the nation.
Airports in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are among the hardest hit, with significant reductions expected at Atlanta, Denver, Dallas, Orlando, Miami, and San Francisco. The FAA’s decision comes as air traffic controllers, who have been working unpaid since October 1, 2023, face increasing stress and staffing shortages.
Officials report that as many as 1,800 flights could be affected daily, stranding approximately 268,000 passengers. Passengers are advised to check with airlines for cancellations starting Thursday, as airlines scramble to adjust their schedules. United Airlines plans to focus cuts on smaller regional routes, while Delta and American Airlines will offer refunds for non-refundable tickets.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated, “We’re in new territory in terms of government shutdowns,” emphasizing the unprecedented nature of these measures. The shutdown has already become the longest on record, and with air traffic controllers missing their second paycheck next week, the strain on the system is palpable.
As airlines attempt to mitigate disruptions, Frontier Airlines recommends travelers secure backup tickets with other carriers to avoid being stranded. The urgency of this situation is heightened by recent staffing reports: over the past weekend, at least 39 air traffic control facilities reported critical staffing issues, marking one of the worst crises since the shutdown began.
With Congress under pressure to end the shutdown, the travel industry warns that continued operational disruptions could severely damage public confidence in the U.S. air travel system. Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, called the situation “unnecessary strain on the system,” urging lawmakers to act quickly.
Passengers are urged to stay informed as developments unfold. The FAA’s flight reductions are set to continue indefinitely, and immediate action is needed to restore normalcy and ensure traveler safety.
