More than 1,200 flights were cancelled across the United States on Friday as airlines reduced schedules to ease pressure on air traffic controllers working without pay amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. 40 major airports, including Atlanta, Denver, Newark, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles, were affected.
The Federal Aviation Administration ordered the reductions after an increasing number of controllers called in sick due to financial strain from missed paychecks. Flight reductions began at four percent and could rise to 10 percent next week if Congress does not reach a funding agreement. Airlines emphasised that international flights were largely unaffected, but passengers still faced long security lines, delays, and last-minute cancellations.
American Airlines reported nearly 220 cancellations for Friday, Delta about 170, and Southwest around 100. Flight tracking site FlightAware also reported thousands of delayed flights, with major hubs like Boston, Chicago O’Hare, Atlanta, and Reagan National experiencing average delays of over an hour.
Some passengers at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport said security lines snaked through terminals, with travelers lying on the floor while waiting.
The disruptions highlight the tangible effects of the nearly six-week-long shutdown, which has left many federal employees either working without pay or furloughed. With the busy Thanksgiving travel season approaching, airlines warned that cancellations could increase if the shutdown continues.
Travellers voiced frustration as their holiday plans were disrupted. “This is hurting a lot of people,” said Rhonda, 65, at LaGuardia Airport. Retiree Werner Buchi added, “This will get serious if things drag on to Thanksgiving.” Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy reassured the public that air travel remains safe despite the operational disruptions.
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With inputs from Associated Press
