The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a 10% reduction in air traffic at 40 major U.S. airports starting Friday. By Friday morning, over 800 U.S.-linked flights were cancelled, according to FlightAware.
The U.S. government shutdown, ongoing since October 1, has caused air traffic controllers to work without pay for nearly six weeks. This has led to staff shortages and flight delays.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford noted staffing pressures and pilot reports of increasing controller fatigue as reasons for preemptive action. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said, “There’ll be frustration, but in the end, our sole role is to make sure that we keep this airspace as safe as possible.”
CBS News obtained a list of affected airports, which include major hubs such as:
Air Canada stated to the National Post that they are monitoring the situation closely and waiting for details on the FAA's planned reductions. Currently, Air Canada maintains its normal schedule but remains cautious for passengers connecting to U.S. flights.
Author's summary: The FAA's 10% air traffic cut at key U.S. airports due to controller shortages is delaying flights, while Canadian airlines are monitoring the impact but maintaining current schedules for now.