Federal Shutdown Grounds 1,200 Flights Across the U.S.

Post by : Mina Rahman

On Friday, the United States saw more than 1,200 flight cancellations following orders from the Trump administration aimed at reducing air traffic volume. This decision was made to relieve the pressure on air traffic controllers, who are currently working without pay due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

These flight cuts are impacting 40 major airports, including significant hubs in Atlanta, Newark, Denver, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles. The reductions are occurring in phases, starting with a 4% decrease in flights, which could escalate to 10% next week if Congress cannot resolve the budget deadlock.

As the shutdown enters its sixth week, numerous federal agencies remain paralyzed with many employees either furloughed or working without compensation since funding expired on October 1.

“This is frustrating. We don’t need to be in this position,” commented American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, urging lawmakers to break the stalemate.

Reportedly, 1,200 flights were canceled on Friday, impacting roughly 3% of total U.S. flights, although 94% of flights still left on time. Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson, Chicago O’Hare, Denver, and Phoenix were among the hardest-hit airports.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy placed blame on Democrats for the prolonged shutdown, advocating for a short-term funding bill. Nonetheless, the ongoing deadlock continues with a Republican-controlled Congress facing opposition from Democrats over budget proposals that entail healthcare reductions.

Passengers are increasingly feeling the strain of these disruptions. “This will get serious if things drag on to Thanksgiving,” warned Werner Buchi, who was waiting at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.

Airlines have started trimming their schedules, including:

• American Airlines: 220 daily cancellations

• Delta Air Lines: About 170 flights cut

• Southwest Airlines: Approximately 100 flights canceled

On Thursday, hundreds of flights were delayed across the country, with lengthy lines reported at security checkpoints.

Despite these disruptions, officials maintain that air travel is still safe. “It’s safe to fly today, tomorrow, and the day after because of the proactive measures we are taking,” Duffy reassured travelers.

However, with the Thanksgiving travel season approaching, concerns are escalating as unpaid air traffic controllers and airport staff face increasing stress—some may even be taking second jobs or calling in sick just to make ends meet.