FAA Implements Flight Capacity Cuts at Major US Airports Amid Government Shutdown

In response to severe air traffic controller shortages caused by the ongoing government shutdown, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced significant flight capacity cuts at 40 of the busiest airports in the United States. These cuts, which will begin on Friday, November 7, are expected to disrupt thousands of flights during the peak holiday travel season.

Safety concerns were cited as the primary reason for this unprecedented move, as air traffic controllers have been working without pay for 36 days and many have been forced to work mandatory overtime. US Transportation Secretary Sean P Duffy confirmed the plan, stating that the FAA will reduce flight capacity by 10% nationwide in order to ensure safety within the National Airspace System.

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford also emphasized the need for corrective action, warning that the pressure on essential aviation personnel is becoming unsustainable and could compromise the safety of the US airline system. These concerns have led to a 10% reduction in flight capacity at major hubs, with the FAA coordinating with airlines to minimize disruptions. However, delays and cancellations are still expected.

The affected airports include major international gateways such as Atlanta, Boston, Washington, DC, Dallas, Detroit, New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. The cuts will be implemented gradually over the weekend, starting with a 4% reduction on Friday, followed by 5% on Saturday and 6% on Sunday. This could potentially impact over 4,400 flights daily and cause significant disruptions for hundreds of thousands of travelers.

The major US carriers have already started adjusting their schedules to accommodate the reduced flight capacity. Delta Air Lines has stated that it plans to operate the majority of its flights, including all long-haul international routes, and is offering fee-free changes or refunds for affected passengers. Other airlines, such as American Airlines, United, and Southwest, are expected to implement similar flexibility policies. However, travel experts are advising passengers to closely monitor their flight statuses and consider rebooking or requesting refunds if their travel is not essential.

The FAA has pledged to review conditions daily and gradually restore flight capacity once staffing and safety metrics improve. However, industry associations, including Airlines for America (A4A) and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), have urged Congress to take immediate action to end the shutdown and prevent further risks to both safety and the economy.

Passengers who are flying this weekend are advised to check their flight status frequently through airline apps or websites, arrive early at airports to account for delays, and consider rebooking or requesting refunds if their travel is not essential. The FAA and the Department of Transportation will also be providing updates on the situation. While the FAA has promised to gradually restore flight capacity, travel analysts predict that the ripple effects of these cuts could persist for up to a week, especially at congested hubs like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.