Air Travel Disrupted as Flight Cuts Begin During Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Friday, more than 5,000 flights in the U.S. were canceled or delayed as new federal mandates took effect due to the ongoing government shutdown. The emergency order aimed to alleviate pressure on air traffic controllers, many of whom are working without pay amid the historic funding impasse.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented a 4% reduction in flights at 40 major airports to manage staffing shortages. This cut is expected to rise to 10% by next week as controllers report fatigue while ensuring the safety of U.S. airspace.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that international flights remain unaffected due to existing agreements, but warned that the chaos at airports could escalate. He noted that cuts could reach as high as 20% if the shutdown continues and more controllers miss work.

Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, expressed concern over the situation, saying, “We know the problems are going to get worse. They’re going to increase.” Daniels emphasized the importance of safety and support for workers tasked with managing air traffic during this stressful time.

Travelers at airports reacted with frustration, navigating flight cancellations and delays. Joe Sullivan, who was en route to his cousin’s wedding in Atlanta, faced a 12-hour wait for a new flight after his original was canceled. “It’s a huge inconvenience,” he said, missing out on family time.

Some passengers sought alternative travel methods, with one woman purchasing a $300 train ticket in case her flight was canceled. Fellow traveler Ndenisarya Meekins shared her anxiety, stating, “Travelling at this time feels nerve-wracking because of the air traffic controller shortage.”

The effects of the shutdown extend beyond logistics. Ariana Jakovljevic, a federal worker affected by the shutdown, expressed her distress as a new graduate without pay. “I thought I had the golden ticket,” she said, hoping for a resolution.

Ben Sauceda voiced concerns as a frequent flyer, remarking, “I’m entrusting my life… to people who aren’t getting paid.” He called for action from Congress to resolve the situation.

As the 38-day shutdown continues, negotiations on Capitol Hill have resumed after an initial standstill between Republicans and Democrats. A new funding bill proposed by Democrats is unlikely to pass due to a lack of Republican support. Senate Majority Leader John Thune announced that efforts would persist over the weekend to broker a deal.

President Donald Trump advocates for ending the Senate filibuster to expedite funding legislation. However, this approach lacks broad support among senators. “If they can’t reach a Deal, the Republicans should terminate the Filibuster, IMMEDIATELY,” Trump wrote on social media.