FAA Cuts Flights at 40 Airports Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

URGENT UPDATE: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has just announced major flight reductions at 40 airports nationwide due to the ongoing government shutdown. Starting this Friday, the FAA plans to implement a 10% reduction in flight capacity, a move that could lead to widespread cancellations and delays for travelers.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed the drastic measures in a statement, emphasizing that this action is essential for maintaining passenger safety. The cuts will target several of the nation’s busiest airports, including those in Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Travelers should brace for significant disruptions as the full impact of the reductions will be felt by next week.

According to aviation data firm Cirium, as many as 1,800 flights could be impacted on the first day of the cuts, with the potential for even more disruptions if the government shutdown persists. Already, over 4,100 flights were delayed across the U.S. on Wednesday, along with 171 cancellations, highlighting the immediate fallout from the ongoing crisis.

The FAA’s decision to reduce capacity also threatens delivery times for cargo, affecting major hubs like Memphis and Louisville. Notably, private jet traffic will be impacted as well, with Teterboro, NJ airport among those facing flight reductions.

Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on their flights before heading to the airport. The aviation system is highly sensitive to disruptions; a single weather delay can cascade into nationwide chaos. As such, disturbances in air traffic control can have even more severe implications.

The situation is developing, and travelers are urged to remain vigilant as the FAA continues to monitor conditions. The full list of affected airports and airlines is being circulated among carriers, and updates will be provided as the situation evolves.

Stay tuned for further updates on this critical story that impacts air travel across the country.