Federal officials have announced a significant reduction in U.S. air traffic, cutting scheduled flights by 10% in 40 busy markets starting Friday. This decision is due to staffing shortages linked to the ongoing government shutdown, which has entered its 36th day.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford explained that this reduction aims to alleviate pressure on air traffic controllers, who have been working without pay during this crisis. He stated, “A 10% reduction in scheduled capacity is necessary for safety.”
The specific cities impacted will be confirmed soon, but major hubs like Boston Logan, New York LaGuardia, Los Angeles International, and Dallas/Fort Worth are likely to be on the list. This may complicate various operations, including commercial flights and space launches.
As controllers face exhaustion from the lack of pay, Bedford highlighted that many are feeling the strain even at this critical juncture. The call for staffing improvements was urgent before the shutdown, with the Transportation Secretary indicating that an additional 2,000 controllers are needed to meet demand.
A recent survey from FlightAware showed that over 10,000 flights experienced delays last weekend alone, further proving the strain on the system. The situation has prompted airlines, aviation unions, and others in the travel industry to urge Congress to resolve the shutdown promptly.
While it remains unclear how exactly these flight reductions will be implemented, airlines appear to be bracing for impact. American Airlines stated it plans to proceed with operations on Thursday but awaits FAA guidance regarding which flights may be affected on Friday.
Considering the implications of a 10% reduction in flights, experts point out challenges in how airlines will adapt to this sudden change. Many airlines have expressed uncertainty about the details and how staff levels will influence operations.
This unexpected decision has left airlines scrambling to adjust their plans to accommodate the new restrictions, which highlights the interconnectedness of government actions and everyday travel experiences.
For further information, check out the FAA’s official updates and related news articles.
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Air Traffic Controllers, Government Shutdown
