Essential workers, including air traffic controllers and TSA agents, have been working without pay for more than a month. This has led to increased sick calls and mounting operational challenges.

By Joe Lombardi From Daily Voice

Travelers could soon face major disruptions as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prepares to cut flights at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports. 

The move comes as the government shutdown stretches into its second month, creating unprecedented strain on air traffic control staffing.

On Wednesday, Nov. 5, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford announced a 10 percent reduction in capacity at 40 “high-volume” airports, starting Friday morning, Nov. 7. The list of affected airports has not yet been released.

The decision is a direct response to staffing shortages caused by the ongoing shutdown, which began on Oct. 1 and has now become the longest in US history.

Essential workers, including air traffic controllers and TSA agents, have been working without pay for more than a month. This has led to increased sick calls and mounting operational challenges.

“My number one priority is the safety of the American people,” Duffy said.

Officials say the cuts are necessary to maintain safety standards in the face of dwindling resources. 

“This data-based decision is designed to alleviate pressure on our air traffic controllers required to keep the skies safe,” the Department of Transportation said in a statement.

The reduction is expected to cause significant delays and cancellations for both commercial and private flights, likely affecting millions of passengers. While the FAA has not specified which airports will see cuts, the impact will be felt nationwide.

The shutdown has already surpassed the previous 35-day record set in 2018-2019, with no end in sight. As the crisis deepens, travelers are urged to check with airlines for updates and prepare for possible disruptions.

Check back to Daily Voice for updates.