Flight Cancellation Updates Amid FAA Flight Cuts
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered a 10% reduction in flights due to the ongoing government shutdown. This directive affects 40 major US airports, causing widespread flight cancellations and disrupting travel plans for thousands of passengers.
Impact on Airports and Flights
Since the shutdown began, air traffic controllers have been working without pay, leading to increased absences as more call in sick. These staffing shortages forced the FAA to implement a flight cut starting with a 4% reduction on Friday, which will increase to 10% by November 14.
- Approximately 750 flights have been canceled as of 6 a.m. ET on Friday, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium.
- The FAA's mandate affects only domestic flights.
- Major airline hubs experience the most significant impact from these cancellations.
Government Response and Future Concerns
“If the shutdown continues for much longer, more unpaid air traffic controllers will stop showing up for work,” said Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy during a news event in Washington, DC.
Duffy warned this could potentially force a reduction in air traffic by as much as 20%. However, after media coverage of his comments, he clarified that these figures were hypothetical and no immediate plans for such a large cut exist.
The FAA’s current plan remains to cut 10% of flights as a direct response to the staffing challenges caused by the government shutdown.
Summary
The FAA’s mandated flight cuts are significantly disrupting US air travel, driven by staffing shortages linked to the ongoing government shutdown, with potential for further reductions if the situation persists.
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