PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Federal Aviation Administration expanded nationwide flight reductions Tuesday as the ongoing government shutdown continues to strain air travel operations.

Flight cuts have increased from 4% to 6%, affecting airports across the country. The FAA is currently limiting capacity at 40 major airports, largely due to a growing number of air traffic controllers not reporting to work. Although air traffic controllers are classified as essential employees and are required to work without pay during the shutdown, staffing shortages are beginning to impact flight schedules.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy addressed concerns about whether air travel would return to normal in time for the busy Thanksgiving holiday, assuming the government reopens this week.

"It depend

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