US Shutdown Enters Day 37: 40 Airports May Cut Domestic Flights By Up To 10%
The ongoing US government shutdown, now the longest in the nation’s history, is threatening major disruptions in air travel. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has warned that 40 of the country’s busiest airports could reduce domestic flight capacity by up to 10% in the coming days.
The shutdown, which began on October 1, continues due to a standoff in Congress. Democrats are demanding assurances on extending Joe Biden-era health insurance subsidies, while Republicans insist those conditions be removed. The impasse has now surpassed the previous 35-day record set during President Trump’s first term.
Staff Shortages Force Flight Cuts
The shutdown has caused widespread staffing shortages among federal workers, particularly air traffic controllers (ATCs). Key airports in New York — John F. Kennedy, LaGuardia, and Newark Liberty — are already operating under restrictions due to reduced tower staffing.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said domestic flight reductions may be necessary as controllers report fatigue and stress. Approximately 1.4 million federal employees, from ATCs to park wardens, are either working without pay or on furlough, with many taking second jobs to make ends meet.
How Reductions Will Roll Out
Flight cuts are expected to be phased in over several days:
- Friday: 4% reduction of domestic flights
- Saturday: 5%
- Sunday: 6%
- Next week: Up to 10%
Airports likely affected include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Chicago O’Hare, and Los Angeles International. Between 3,500 and 4,000 domestic flights could be cancelled daily, while international flights will continue to operate normally.
Airlines Brace For Impact
American Airlines said it is awaiting FAA guidance to identify affected flights but expects the majority of customers to remain unaffected. Southwest Airlines is also assessing the situation and urged Congress to resolve the shutdown swiftly.
The shutdown has already prompted federal workforce reductions in departments including Treasury, Health and Human Services, Education, and Housing and Urban Development. The White House has reported one reduction in force affecting 4,100 employees, with additional cuts possible if the shutdown persists.
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