FAA Orders Airlines to Reduce Flights Amid Staffing Shortages

WASHINGTON — Airlines are cancelling hundreds of flights following an order from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) aimed at reducing air traffic by 10% at the nation’s busiest airports. This measure is seen as essential for maintaining safety during a government shutdown that has resulted in staffing shortages among air traffic controllers.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the reductions at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Friday, stating, “We’ll see probably more people on less flights, which means less pressure on controllers.” The FAA plans to gradually implement these reductions, starting with 4% of flights this weekend, increasing to 10% by the following Friday.

Forty major airports, including hubs in Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles, are impacted. Airlines like United and American Airlines report significant cuts, especially in regional markets, as they aim to protect their most profitable routes.

The FAA’s traffic reduction plan only affects domestic flights and includes temporary limits on commercial space launches, which can increase the workload for air traffic controllers. Meanwhile, major airlines are trying to reassure customers about the impact of these changes.

Delta Air Lines says it will continue to operate the majority of its schedule but may adjust flight frequencies. “The majority of our reductions involve our regional flying schedule,” said American Airlines COO David Seymour in a letter to employees.

Some customers are concerned about how cancellations might affect their travel plans. Ellen Silva, who arrived in Atlanta recently, expressed worries about potentially missing work due to cancelled flights. Patricia Andeweg, who was supposed to fly to Australia for her 90th birthday, lamented missing her special day due to a series of delays.

The FAA, acknowledging the challenging circumstances, is using data to guide the reduction process. Administrator Bryan Bedford emphasized the organization is aiming for a calculated approach in order to ensure safety as fewer controllers are on duty.