UPDATE: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has just announced a significant reduction in air traffic, cutting 10% of flights at 40 major airports starting this Friday. This urgent measure comes amid ongoing staffing shortages caused by the federal government shutdown, which has left air traffic controllers working without pay since October 1.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford confirmed this drastic action Wednesday afternoon, warning that it will impact approximately 3,500 to 4,000 flights daily. The shutdown, now entering its sixth week, has severely affected air traffic operations, with controllers reporting fatigue and increased absenteeism as they manage heightened workloads without compensation.
Flight delays have already been occurring at various locations due to widespread staffing shortages. Over the weekend, at least 39 air traffic control facilities reported potential limitations in staffing—far exceeding the average of 8.3 facilities during weekends before the shutdown. This alarming trend raises concerns about the safety and efficiency of air travel in the United States.
The following airports will experience the 10% flight reductions beginning Friday, according to multiple reports. The FAA has not yet finalized this list, so changes may occur:
– Anchorage International (ANC)
– Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL)
– Boston Logan International (BOS)
– Baltimore/Washington International (BWI)
– Charlotte Douglas International (CLT)
– Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International (CVG)
– Dallas Love Field (DAL)
– Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)
– Denver International (DEN)
– Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW)
– Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW)
– Newark Liberty International (EWR)
– Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International (FLL)
– Honolulu International (HNL)
– Houston Hobby Airport (HOU)
– Washington Dulles International (IAD)
– George Bush Houston Intercontinental (IAH)
– Indianapolis International (IND)
– New York John F. Kennedy International (JFK)
– Las Vegas McCarran International (LAS)
– Los Angeles International (LAX)
– New York LaGuardia (LGA)
– Orlando International (MCO)
– Chicago Midway (MDW)
– Memphis International (MEM)
– Miami International (MIA)
– Minneapolis/St. Paul International (MSP)
– Oakland International (OAK)
– Ontario International (ONT)
– Chicago O’Hare International (ORD)
– Portland International (PDX)
– Philadelphia International (PHL)
– Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX)
– San Diego International (SAN)
– Louisville International (SDF)
– Seattle/Tacoma International (SEA)
– San Francisco International (SFO)
– Salt Lake City International (SLC)
– Teterboro Airport (TEB)
– Tampa International (TPA)
As the situation develops, travelers are urged to check flight statuses and stay updated on potential changes, as the FAA’s staffing issues may continue to affect air travel in the foreseeable future. The emotional toll on air traffic controllers is also mounting, with many taking on second jobs to make ends meet while missing their second paycheck next Tuesday, highlighting the human impact of this ongoing crisis.
With the government’s shutdown remaining unresolved, travelers should prepare for potential disruptions and delays. Stay tuned for more updates as this situation evolves.
