The U.S. Department of Transportation is ordering airlines to begin reducing flight schedules at 40 “high traffic” airports by 10%, as the government shutdown approaches a record-40th day.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says the cuts are designed to "alleviate the pressure" on air traffic controllers who are now working without pay due to lapses in federal funding.

FAA administrator Bryan Bedford says the restrictions — which will begin Friday — are needed to maintain safety because “fatigue” is hitting air traffic controllers.

Major carriers announced that they will begin implementing schedule changes in the coming days.

But analysts caution that the situation remains subject to change, and stressed that airline ticket holders should check directly with carriers for the latest

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