The United States is preparing to cut flights at 40 major airports by 10%, as federal aviation authorities grapple with a shortage of air traffic controllers exacerbated by the ongoing government shutdown. The suspension of federal operations, now in its 36th day and the longest in U.S. history, has triggered widespread disruptions. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) officials confirmed that the reductions will begin on November 7, targeting airports experiencing the highest congestion.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized that safety remains a priority, stating the FAA would manage the shortage of approximately 2,000 controllers. However, the agency warned that further restrictions might be necessary if initial measures fail to alleviate staffing pressures. The cuts will affect commercial and cargo flights on domestic and international routes, with estimates suggesting up to 1,800 daily flights and 268,000 passenger seats could be impacted. Major airports in New York, Washington, Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Dallas are among those expected to face reductions.
The shutdown has already caused significant disruptions, with tens of thousands of flight delays reported since its onset. Airlines have criticized the situation, citing safety risks and financial losses. Shares of major carriers like United and American dropped by 1% in extended trading. Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers have shown no immediate willingness to end the standoff, with Senator Chris Murphy urging colleagues to hold firm on their demands. Republicans, meanwhile, face pressure as the crisis deepens, with daily economic losses exceeding $15 billion.
The FAA has also warned of potential “massive chaos” in air travel if the shutdown persists, while small businesses and non-profits struggle with reduced access to federal support. The prolonged impasse continues to strain the U.S. economy and infrastructure.
