More than 800 flights in the United States have been canceled as a result of a directive from federal officials to reduce capacity at 40 major airports during the ongoing Government shutdown. This decision has plunged millions of travelers into chaos, with long queues and significant delays becoming the new norm. The measure, affecting only domestic flights, was implemented due to reports of fatigue from air traffic controllers, as stated by the head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Approximately 1.4 million federal workers, including air traffic controllers and park wardens, are either working without pay or on mandatory leave due to the lack of a funding budget approved by the US Congress. Major airports such as those in Chicago, Atlanta, New York, and Washington DC are among those experiencing service cutbacks.
US Vice President JD Vance has issued a warning, labeling the situation as an “aviation emergency.” He criticized the government shutdown, stating that it has transitioned from a farce to a tragedy, and urged lawmakers to resolve the crisis promptly.
The reduction in flights will be implemented gradually, starting at 4% of domestic flights on Friday and increasing to 6% by November 11, 8% by November 13, and finally reaching 10% by November 14.