Shutdown effect: US may cut 10% flights at 40 airports
What's the story
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will reduce air traffic at 40 major US airports by 10% starting Friday if a government shutdown, which has been the longest in American history, continues. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the decision during a news conference on Wednesday. The reduction could affect thousands of flights, but specific details on which airports will be impacted remain undisclosed.
Staffing crisis
Controllers miss paychecks
The announcement comes as shortages of air traffic controllers during the shutdown are causing more flight delays across the country. Controllers, who are essential employees, have missed their first scheduled paycheck and are about to miss their second full paycheck, and some are taking second jobs or calling in sick to protest. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford described the decision as "prescriptive" and "surgical," emphasizing their goal to keep airspace safe.
Industry impact
Airlines informed of the plan only an hour before announcement
Since the shutdown began, there have been over 400 staffing shortages at FAA facilities, a CNN analysis found. Airlines were reportedly informed of the plan only an hour before its announcement. Airlines for America, the industry trade group, said in a statement that they are working with the federal government to understand the details of this new mandate and mitigate impacts on passengers and shippers.
Travel advisory
Frontier advises passengers to book backup tickets
Most major airlines said they are evaluating the potential impact of these measures. However, Frontier Airlines advised passengers to book backup tickets or risk being stranded due to possible flight cancellations. United Airlines said long-haul international flying and hub-to-hub flying wouldn't be affected, but regional flights would see cuts. American Airlines expects most customer flights won't be impacted, while Southwest Airlines is assessing how restrictions will affect its schedule.