Air Travel on the Brink: 10% Flight Cuts Loom Over 40 US Airports Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has issued a stark warning: if the government shutdown continues, air travel capacity at 40 major US airports will be reduced by 10% starting this Friday. This drastic measure is being taken in response to growing fatigue among air traffic controllers, which has been exacerbated by their ongoing lack of pay—controllers have not received a paycheck for over a month. According to FAA chief Bryan Bedford, the shutdown is the longest in US history, and the resulting stress is taking its toll on federal employees; many are feeling health impacts from financial strain or are forced to take on second jobs.

The flight reductions will incrementally increase: beginning with a 4% cut of domestic flights on Friday, progressing to 5% on Saturday, and 6% on Sunday, ultimately reaching the full 10% by the following week. This situation could lead to the cancellation of between 3,500 and 4,000 flights per day, thereby compromising travel plans for thousands of passengers.

American Airlines has indicated it is closely monitoring the situation to assess how many flights will be affected, while Southwest Airlines is still determining its strategy in light of potential restrictions. Both airlines emphasize their commitment to customer service and safety during this challenging time. The FAA insists that the cancellation of flights is a necessary precaution to maintain air traffic safety and efficiency.

As the shutdown has progressed, air traffic controllers have begun calling in sick in larger numbers, citing financial struggles, which have forced some airports to delay or ground flights due to insufficient staff. Nick Daniels, the president of a union representing over 20,000 aviation workers, illustrated the dire situation, stating that controllers are struggling to afford basic necessities like gas to commute to work. The unpredictability of the current situation is further complicated by Duffy’s earlier remarks about potential consequences for controllers who do not show up for work while they are unpaid.

With Congress at an impasse and no resolution in sight, the transportation landscape is becoming increasingly precarious, risking the safety and reliability of the nation’s air travel as it grapples with the repercussions of a prolonged shutdown.