Washington, Nov 7: More than 1,000 flights were cancelled across the United States on Friday as the Trump administration implemented reductions to ease pressure on air traffic controllers working without pay during the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Flight cuts affected 40 airports, including key hubs in Atlanta, Newark, Denver, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles. The reductions began at four percent and could increase to 10% next week if Congress fails to reach a funding agreement.
The shutdown, now nearing six weeks, stems from a deadlock between Republicans and Democrats, primarily over health insurance subsidies. Many government employees, including essential airport personnel, are either working without pay or furloughed.
Flight tracking website FlightAware reported that Friday’s cancellations hit Reagan National in Washington, Denver International, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International airports the hardest. Delays averaged four hours at Reagan National, 90 minutes in Phoenix, and one hour in Chicago and San Francisco.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom described the situation as “frustrating” to CNBC, emphasizing the direct impact on travelers. Delta Air Lines cancelled about 170 flights on Friday, Southwest Airlines cut around 100, and American Airlines reported 220 daily flight cancellations.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy blamed Democrats for the shutdown, urging them to vote to reopen the government. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump called on Senate lawmakers to stay in Washington until a funding deal is reached.
The flight disruptions come at a critical time as the country heads into the busy Thanksgiving travel period. Passengers like Werner Buchi at New York’s LaGuardia Airport warned of potential holiday disruptions, while travelers like Rhonda expressed concerns over plans being affected by the political stalemate.
Despite the cancellations, the FAA and government officials have reassured travelers that air travel remains safe. However, the strain on aviation workers continues, with some calling in sick or seeking secondary employment to make ends meet.