US Government Shutdown Forces 10% Flight Cuts at 40 Airports

The United States government is set to cut 10% of flights across 40 major airports starting Friday as the record-breaking federal shutdown enters its 36th day, crippling the nation’s aviation system and testing the patience of millions of travelers.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the decision on Wednesday, citing severe staff shortages among air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents, many of whom have been forced to work without pay since the shutdown began on October 1.

“This is not a step we take lightly,” Duffy told reporters. “But with limited resources and growing fatigue among essential personnel, we had to make difficult decisions to maintain aviation safety.”

Air Traffic Chaos Looms

The shutdown, now the longest in US history, has already caused widespread delays and cancellations. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), around 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 TSA agents continue to work without compensation, worsening morale and increasing absenteeism.

Aviation analytics firm Cirium estimates that the flight reductions could affect more than 1,800 flights and 268,000 passenger seats daily. The most impacted airports include those in New York, Washington, DC, Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Dallas — America’s busiest air hubs.

The FAA also warned that additional restrictions could follow if staff shortages worsen, potentially grounding even more flights.

Airlines React to Flight Reduction

Major US airlines — including Delta, United, American, and Southwest — said they are reviewing the government’s directive and exploring contingency measures to minimize disruption for passengers.

“We are working closely with federal authorities to understand the scope of these reductions and will strive to mitigate passenger inconvenience,” a spokesperson for Airlines for America, the industry’s main trade group, said.

Industry analysts warn that prolonged flight cuts could cost airlines millions in lost revenue. Shares of major carriers dipped about 1% in after-hours trading on Wednesday following the announcement.

Political Deadlock Deepens

The shutdown stems from a funding impasse between Republicans and Democrats in Congress. Democrats have refused to approve a spending plan that excludes health insurance subsidies, while Republicans, backed by President Donald Trump, are attempting to intensify pressure by highlighting the growing disruptions caused by the closure.

The standoff has left 750,000 federal employees furloughed and millions of low-income Americans without access to critical government services such as food assistance.

Aviation Safety at Risk

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford revealed that between 20% and 40% of controllers at the nation’s busiest airports have stopped reporting for duty due to financial strain. “The system is under immense stress,” he warned.

Duffy also cautioned that if the shutdown continues, it could lead to “mass chaos” in the skies and force the closure of certain segments of national airspace. The Department of Transportation further confirmed that space launches will now be limited to designated hours to reduce workload pressure on control staff.

Passengers Left in Limbo

Over 3.2 million passengers have already been affected by cancellations and delays during the shutdown, according to industry estimates. Travelers at airports across the country have faced hours-long security lines, missed connections, and abrupt schedule changes.

Despite airlines’ attempts to reassure customers, experts warn that prolonged disruptions could dent consumer confidence and impact holiday travel bookings if the shutdown drags on into the winter season.