FAA to Cut Air Traffic by 10% in 40 Major U.S. Markets Amid Shutdown

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced a significant reduction in air traffic across 40 of the busiest U.S. markets, implementing a 10% cut in flights beginning Friday. This measure is being introduced as a response to the ongoing government shutdown, which has placed considerable pressure on air traffic controllers and led to widespread staffing shortages.

The FAA, which oversees more than 44,000 flights daily across commercial, cargo, and private aviation, has not yet specified which airports or cities will experience the reductions. The agency emphasized that these restrictions aim to uphold safety standards and will remain in effect as long as necessary.

Air traffic controllers have been working without pay since the shutdown commenced on October 1. Many have been required to work six days a week and take on mandatory overtime. The prolonged shutdown has caused some controllers to miss work due to financial strain, seek secondary employment, or struggle with everyday expenses such as childcare and transportation. As a result, staffing gaps have already led to delays at various airports.

FAA officials have stated that the decision to reduce air traffic was made after analyzing reports indicating increasing fatigue and stress among air traffic controllers. They highlighted that preemptive action was essential to prevent potential safety concerns from escalating. The agency, along with the Department of Transportation, plans to meet with airline representatives to coordinate the reduction plan and will release a list of affected airports shortly.

Major airlines, including United, Southwest, and American, are expected to adjust their schedules to comply with the FAA's directive. Airlines have pledged to minimize disruptions for passengers, focusing most schedule adjustments on regional and non-hub routes. Customers affected by canceled flights may be offered alternative travel arrangements or refunds. Airlines have also reassured passengers that major long-haul and hub-to-hub flights will largely remain unaffected, helping to maintain the broader integrity of their networks.

Industry experts have raised concerns about the short notice given to airlines, noting that a 48-hour window to reschedule operations could lead to confusion and additional disruptions for travelers and airline staff. Aviation analytics firms estimate that the 10% reduction may affect up to 1,800 flights and over 268,000 seats nationwide, depending on how the cuts are distributed across airports. For instance, Chicago's O'Hare International Airport could see over 100 flights cut from its daily schedule if reductions are applied evenly.

Data from recent weekends reveals that staffing shortages at air traffic control facilities have become more frequent and severe during the shutdown. The number of facilities reporting limited staffing has more than tripled compared to pre-shutdown figures, impacting airports, regional centers, and high-altitude traffic monitoring sites.

The aviation industry, along with unions and travel organizations, has called on Congress to resolve the funding stalemate and restore normal operations. The FAA's actions are intended as a proactive measure to maintain safety and avoid further disruptions, drawing lessons from past incidents where delayed responses led to safety questions.

Travelers are advised to monitor updates from airlines and airports, allow extra time for travel, and stay informed about potential schedule changes. The situation remains fluid, with further measures possible if the shutdown continues and staffing pressures persist.