FAA Orders 10% Cut in Flights at 40 Major Airports Amid U.S. Government Shutdown
Airlines and passengers brace for delays as the federal shutdown deepens and air traffic control staffing shortages worsen
Airlines reacted strongly to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) announcement of a 10% reduction in air traffic across 40 major airports nationwide starting Friday. The move comes amid the ongoing federal government shutdown and a worsening shortage of air traffic controllers.
The decision reflects the latest fallout from legislative paralysis in Congress, which has triggered an operational crisis affecting hundreds of thousands of federal employees and exerting growing pressure on the aviation system. Increasing warnings have emerged over potential flight safety risks and overall system stability.
Many air traffic controllers have been unable to perform at full capacity due to the lack of pay during the shutdown, reducing the system’s ability to maintain normal flight schedules. Authorities have implemented emergency measures to prevent safety degradation or potential accidents at major airports.
U.S. Airlines Adjust Flight Schedules as FAA Cuts Operations at 40 Major Airports
In a statement on X, United Airlines confirmed that its flight reductions would begin on November 7, adding that it would continuously update schedules to alert travelers of any changes well in advance. The airline reassured passengers that intercontinental and hub-to-hub flights will not be affected, with most cuts focusing on domestic and regional routes outside its central hubs.
American Airlines also confirmed the new guidelines stem from the ongoing shutdown and staffing crisis in control towers. The company said the reductions are intended to maintain safe navigation operations and emphasized that most passengers will still be able to travel as planned, with rescheduling offered to those affected.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Administrator Brian Bedford stated that the cuts would affect 40 major airports, impacting thousands of daily flights. Duffy noted that key personnel — especially air traffic controllers — have been working without pay since the shutdown began. He said the measure aims to preserve safety standards before risks escalate:“Delays and cancellations may occur, but our top priority is ensuring Americans reach their destinations safely,” Duffy said on X.
