FAA Cuts Flights by 10% Amid Government Shutdown

The Federal Aviation Administration has issued an unprecedented order to cut flights by up to 10% due to the ongoing government shutdown, which has left air traffic controllers working without pay. This reduction will take effect Friday morning, impacting 40 major airports across the United States, including key hubs such as Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, and Charlotte.

According to NPR, the FAA's decision comes as air traffic controllers, many of whom are working six-day weeks with mandatory overtime, are increasingly calling out of work due to financial strain and exhaustion.

With over 780 flights already canceled nationwide as airlines scramble to adjust their schedules, travelers are bracing for a tumultuous travel period, especially as many flights are expected to be delayed or canceled during this busy time.

Delta Air Lines has announced plans to cancel approximately 170 flights Friday, while American Airlines is expected to cut around 220 flights daily through Monday. The FAA's cuts are to be implemented between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., emphasizing the impact on commercial airlines throughout the country.

As noted by NBC News, the cuts are primarily a response to safety concerns exacerbated by staffing shortages attributed to the government shutdown. Airlines are required to refund customers whose flights are canceled, but they are not obligated to cover additional costs like food and accommodations unless the cancellations are due to factors within their control.

Industry analyst Henry Harteveldt highlighted the noticeable impact these reductions will have across the U.S. air transportation system, and warned that package delivery services may also be slowed, particularly affecting FedEx and UPS due to the inclusion of their major distribution centers in Memphis and Louisville in the cutbacks.

On the travel insurance front, as reported by the New York Times, travelers need to be cautious about their policies, as claims for canceled trips may be denied if the insurance was purchased after the shutdown began.

While international flights may not be as severely impacted, travelers should still expect longer security lines and potential delays at airports. In light of the situation, experts advise purchasing refundable tickets to avoid additional financial losses due to the ongoing chaos.