As Thanksgiving approaches, U.S. flights are facing serious disruptions due to a federal shutdown that’s now stretched beyond 40 days. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently warned that flight availability will drop dramatically. This year, Thanksgiving falls on November 27, a peak travel time for many Americans.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered airlines to reduce daily flight numbers by 4% at 40 major airports, increasing to 6% and then 10% in the coming days. This decision comes amid ongoing staffing shortages for air traffic controllers who have not been paid during the shutdown. Over 1,000 controllers are currently missing, which has led to chaos in scheduling and frequent delays.
Recent data shows that thousands of flights have already been canceled, with passengers expressing frustration and anxiety on social media. Many travelers are worried they won’t find seats on the limited flights available, especially as millions plan to travel for the holiday. Airlines for America reports that over 4 million passengers have been affected since the shutdown began on October 1.
There’s also a larger economic context to consider. White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett remarked that disruptions during Thanksgiving could negatively impact U.S. economic growth, particularly when air travel is a significant driver for businesses at this time of year. He noted that the economy could face a setback if fewer people travel during the holiday season.
Interestingly, reports indicate that the shutdown has led to increased retirements among air traffic controllers, with the number jumping from about four per day to as many as 20. This trend could exacerbate the current staffing issues. In fact, Republican Senator Ted Cruz highlighted concerns about safety, stating that pilots have filed over 500 safety reports related to controller fatigue since the shutdown began.
As the situation unfolds, public sentiment continues to grow uneasy. Travelers on platforms like Twitter are sharing their frustrations, voicing fears about getting home for the holidays and the larger implications of a prolonged shutdown. Airlines are urging for a resolution to the staffing crisis, as each day of the shutdown represents significant challenges for the flying public and the economy.
For more comprehensive insights on the impact of the federal shutdown on air travel, you can refer to trusted sources like the FAA’s reports and economic analyses from the White House.
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