Flight cuts, delays rise as U.S. shutdown strains air traffic control staffing

Major U.S. airports are cutting flights and facing delays as the government shutdown continues to affect air traffic control staffing, raising concerns ahead of peak holiday travel.

U.S. airlines reduced 4% of domestic flights across 40 major airports on Friday following FAA capacity limits linked to staffing shortages during the ongoing government shutdown. The reductions could rise to 6% by Tuesday and 10% by November 14 if the shutdown continues. International flights are not affected.

The shutdown, now in its 38th day, has left hundreds of thousands of federal workers without pay, including air traffic controllers. The FAA says reduced staffing has impacted its ability to manage normal flight volumes safely.

By midday, more than 2,900 U.S. flight delays and 1,200+ cancellations had been reported, with traveler disruptions expected to intensify ahead of Thanksgiving, one of the country’s busiest travel periods.

At Newark Airport, business consultant Bruce Zimmer described the situation as challenging: “It's a big mess and we have to deal with it.” New Jersey resident Dawn Morris warned of holiday impact, saying: “If this continues, this is going to end up being a big problem.” Private pilot Steve Dolask noted concerns about staffing pressures for controllers, adding he hopes for resolution.

Airlines say they are adjusting schedules and notifying passengers. Delta Air Lines confirmed it completed required flight cuts through the weekend and is offering flexible rebooking, cancellations, or refunds.

At Chicago O’Hare, average ground delays reached 61 minutes, though security wait times remained limited, according to passenger reports. Travelers in Los Angeles, Newark, Atlanta, Chicago, Houston and Denver may see increased disruptions in the coming days.

In Washington, Senate leaders signaled lawmakers may work through the weekend as the shutdown extends into a record-breaking stretch, though no final deal has been reached.

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