Busiest US Airports Face Flight Reductions Amid Government Shutdown

The ongoing government shutdown in the United States has led to major airlines gradually reducing flights at some of the busiest airports in the country. This decision comes as a result of the strain on air traffic controllers and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) due to the lack of funding.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has ordered a 10% cut in flights at 40 major U.S. airports, starting Friday, in an effort to alleviate the pressure on air traffic controllers. This move is expected to impact thousands of flights across the country, including hubs and large airports.

United Airlines has assured customers that long-haul international and hub-to-hub operations will remain unchanged despite the flight reductions. However, the FAA has warned that further air traffic issues may arise, leading to additional flight restrictions if the shutdown continues.

The affected airports cover more than two dozen states and include some of the busiest hubs in the U.S. Passengers planning to fly during this time are advised to check with their airlines for any potential flight cancellations or delays.

The FAA’s decision to reduce air traffic by 10% across high-volume markets is a direct response to the ongoing strain on air traffic controllers. The agency has stated that if the shutdown persists, more drastic measures may be necessary to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel.