The United States is experiencing severe disruptions in air travel due to a government shutdown that has now extended to its 40th day. In response, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated a 4% reduction in daily flights at 40 major airports, set to increase to 6% by Tuesday and 10% by November 14. This action aims to manage the strain arising from a shortage of air traffic controllers, many of whom are working unpaid due to the shutdown.
On Saturday alone, the aviation sector saw 1,550 flights canceled and 6,700 delayed, while Sunday recorded over 2,100 cancellations, the highest since the shutdown began. Major airports like Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson and New York’s JFK were notably affected, facing severe operational disruptions.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has raised alarms regarding the ongoing situation, warning that continued shutdown could drastically reduce air traffic, particularly during the critical Thanksgiving travel period. He cited safety concerns linked to air traffic controller fatigue, noting over 500 safety reports from pilots highlighting issues during the shutdown. This deficiency in staffing has led to increased near-misses, raising safety alarms about the nation’s airspace.
The FAA’s flight reduction measures have drawn criticism from various sectors. Senator Ted Cruz noted the safety implications of staffing shortages, while major airlines such as American, Delta, Southwest, and United reported significant operational challenges, each canceling hundreds of flights.
As the shutdown persists, the aviation industry faces uncertainty and potential further disruptions, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to restore normalcy and ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel in the country.
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