US Government Shutdown Hits Air Travel: 40 Airports May Slash Flights By 10%

US Shutdown Forces Potential Flight Cuts: 40 Major Airports May Slash Up To 10% Of Domestic Flights.

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has warned that 40 major airports across the country could reduce domestic flight capacity by up to 10% in the coming days, as the government shutdown — now the longest in US history — enters its 37th day.

The shutdown, which began on October 1, has continued due to a standoff in Congress. Democrats are refusing to approve a funding deal without assurances on extending Joe Biden-era health insurance subsidies, while Republicans insist these conditions be dropped. The current 36+ day impasse has already surpassed the previous record during President Trump’s first term.

Flight Disruptions And Staffing Shortages
The ongoing shutdown has caused significant disruptions to air travel because of staffing shortages among air traffic controllers (ATCs). Key New York airports — John F. Kennedy, Newark Liberty, and LaGuardia — are operating under restrictions due to reduced control tower staffing.

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford warned in a press briefing that domestic flights may face cuts as fatigued air traffic controllers struggle to maintain operations. Around 1.4 million federal employees, including ATCs, park wardens, and other staff, are either working without pay or on forced leave. Union reports indicate rising stress and health issues, with many employees taking second jobs to cope.

Planned Flight Reductions

Flight reductions are expected to be gradual:

• Friday: 4% of domestic flights
• Saturday: 5%
• Sunday: 6%

Next week: Up to 10%
Some of the busiest US hubs are on the list, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver International, Chicago O’Hare, and Los Angeles International. Between 3,500 and 4,000 domestic flights could be affected per day, while international flights are expected to continue unaffected.

Duffy emphasized that the reductions are a safety measure to ensure efficient air traffic management. He also warned that if the shutdown persists, further restrictions could be implemented.

Airlines Respond
American Airlines said it is awaiting guidance from the FAA to determine which flights may be cancelled but expects most customers’ travel to remain unaffected. Southwest Airlines is also assessing the impact and has urged Congress to resolve the shutdown promptly.

Meanwhile, the federal government has already implemented staffing reductions in several departments, including Treasury, Health and Human Services, Education, and Housing and Urban Development. The White House has reported one layoff affecting 4,100 workers, with more potential cuts if the impasse continues.