Transportation Secretary Warns of US Flight Cuts at 40 Airports Without Shutdown Resolution
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced potential flight reductions affecting up to 10% of air traffic at 40 major airports. This action is a direct consequence of the ongoing government shutdown, which has led to concerns about the safety and efficiency of air travel.
Impact of the Government Shutdown
The shutdown, which has now become the longest in US history, has left approximately 1.4 million federal employees working without pay. Many of these workers, including air traffic controllers, are facing increasing stress and financial strain. Unions representing these employees report rising illness and the necessity for many to take on additional jobs.
Flight Reductions Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), led by Bryan Bedford, indicated that flight reductions will initially start at 4% this Friday, increasing to 10% by next week. This gradual reduction is expected to impact domestic flights but will not affect international services.
- Friday: 4% reduction in domestic flights
- Saturday: 5% reduction
- Sunday: 6% reduction
- Next Week: Up to 10% reduction expected
The affected airports are among the busiest in the nation, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International and Los Angeles International. Reports suggest that this situation could lead to cancellations of between 3,500 and 4,000 flights daily.
Airline Responses
American Airlines has noted that the impact on their operations will become clearer once they receive further information from the FAA. Meanwhile, Southwest Airlines is assessing how these restrictions may affect its service. Delta Airlines has yet to provide a comment on the matter.
Controller Concerns
With half of the nation’s major airports facing staffing shortages, air traffic controllers are expressing significant concern. Many have reported being financially strained and unable to pay for basic necessities, leading to calls for immediate action from Congress to resolve the impasse.
- “Air traffic controllers are texting, ‘I don’t even have enough money to put gas in my car to come to work.’” – Nick Daniels, labor union president
- Controllers are taking additional jobs, further impacting their ability to perform safely at work.
In light of these challenges, Secretary Duffy emphasized that while air travel remains safe, the cautious approach is necessary to maintain this safety standard.
Next Steps
As the situation develops, officials are urging Congress to promptly address the funding issue to restore the National Airspace System to its full capacity. The disruptions currently felt in air travel highlight the critical need for resolution to prevent further strain on the aviation industry.
