More than 800 flights have been canceled in the United States following a directive from federal officials to reduce operations at 40 major airports due to the Government shutdown. This decision, affecting only domestic flights, was taken in response to air traffic controllers reporting fatigue, as stated by the head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Millions of travelers are now experiencing disruptions with long queues and significant delays. The ongoing shutdown, resulting from the US Congress failing to agree on a funding budget, has left around 1.4 million federal workers, including air traffic controllers and park wardens, either working without pay or on mandatory leave.
The reduction in service is affecting major airports such as those in Chicago, Atlanta, New York, and Washington DC. US Vice President JD Vance has raised concerns, labeling the situation an “aviation emergency” and criticizing lawmakers for the shutdown’s impact on the nation.
Flight cutbacks will be implemented gradually, starting with a 4% reduction in domestic flights on Friday and escalating to 6% by November 11, 8% by November 13, and reaching a full 10% reduction by November 14.
