The United States faces growing disruption in air travel as Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced potential flight cuts of up to 10% at 40 major airports if the government shutdown continues.
The move aims to protect aviation safety after air traffic controllers reported fatigue and financial stress from working without pay. Around 1.4 million federal employees, including controllers and technical staff, are either on unpaid leave or continuing to work without compensation due to the ongoing budget deadlock in Congress.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plans a gradual reduction, starting with a 4% cut on Friday and reaching 10% next week, impacting up to 4,000 domestic flights daily. Major hubs such as Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Chicago O’Hare, and Los Angeles International are expected to be affected.
While international flights remain unaffected, airlines like American and Southwest have begun assessing how the restrictions will influence operations. FAA officials reiterated that air travel remains safe, but warned that continued strain on the workforce could force further measures.
Adding to the concern, Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle offered practical advice to passengers:
“Flights will be trimmed due to ATC staffing starting Friday. If you’re flying in the next ten days and can’t risk delays, book a backup ticket on another carrier, preferably one that allows free changes or credits. The risk of being stranded is high if your flight is canceled.”
Industry unions have described a deteriorating situation, with many controllers reportedly taking second jobs or struggling to afford basic necessities. The shutdown, now the longest in US history, is testing the resilience of one of the world’s most complex airspace systems.