Airlines juggle flight cuts as shutdown hits air travel

Major airports appeared to be working largely as normal Friday as airlines canceled hundreds of flights across the United States, but widespread concern that the situation could worsen brought home the effects of the government shutdown to many more Americans.

The cuts were announced by the Federal Aviation Administration this week to limit air traffic as the shutdown, now the longest in U.S. history, leaves air traffic controllers working without pay. Major airlines said most customers would not be affected and that travelers who wanted to change or cancel a flight for a refund could do so. International flights were virtually unaffected.

Starting Friday, the FAA required airlines to cut 4% of flights at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports. The mandate will rise to 6% Tuesday, 8% Thursd