**Summary: FAA to Cut Flights at Major US Airports Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown**
Travelers flying in the coming days and weeks are facing new uncertainties and disruptions, as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced significant cuts to flight capacity at dozens of major US airports. This move comes in response to the ongoing government shutdown, which has left air traffic controllers working without pay and worsened already existing staff shortages. The reductions are set to begin on Friday and will affect 40 high-traffic airports across the country, representing a 10% decrease in flight capacity. With the busy holiday travel season approaching, both airlines and passengers are bracing for widespread disruptions and delays.
**Why Are Flights Being Cut?**
The current situation is a direct result of the prolonged government shutdown, which began on October 1 and shows little sign of ending soon. Air traffic controllers, who are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of aircraft, are among the federal employees affected by the shutdown. They are currently working without pay, and prior to the shutdown, the FAA was already dealing with staffing shortages. The combination of increased stress, uncertainty, and lack of compensation has forced the agency to make the difficult decision to reduce the number of flights, aiming to maintain safety and manage the limited workforce effectively.
The FAA has not specified how long these cuts will last, leaving travelers and airlines in a state of limbo. There is also a possibility that reductions could spread to more airports if the legislative impasse continues. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has even warned that, in a worst-case scenario, the entire US airspace could be shut down if Congress does not act to resolve the funding crisis.
**Which Airports Are Affected?**
While the FAA did not publish an official list, multiple media outlets, including NBC News, have reported the 40 airports that will be impacted. These are some of the nation’s busiest hubs, and travelers using these airports should be especially vigilant for changes to their flight plans. The reductions will start at 4% on Friday, increase to 5% on Saturday, and reach the full 10% the following week. With no end date in sight for the shutdown or the cuts, the situation may become even more unpredictable as the holiday season approaches, potentially affecting millions of travelers.
**What Should Travelers Expect?**
If you have upcoming travel plans, it is essential to prepare for possible delays, cancellations, and longer wait times at airports. Even if your specific flight is not immediately affected by the cuts, the ripple effects throughout the system could cause congestion, rescheduling, and disruptions to connecting flights. Security and ticket lines are likely to be longer than usual due to reduced staffing and increased confusion.
Experts recommend several steps to minimize inconvenience:
- **Download airline and airport apps:** These can provide real-time updates on delays, cancellations, and gate changes. - **Check in advance:** Print or download your boarding pass before arriving at the airport to save time. - **Monitor security wait times