In a move set to ripple through global itineraries, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will reduce scheduled airline traffic by 10 percent at 40 major airports starting this Friday. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy underscored that 'we can't ignore early warning signs' and that these cuts aim to prevent safety issues before they arise.
State of play: Since the federal government shutdown became the longest in U.S. history, about 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 airport security officers have worked without pay. Staffing shortages are driving flight delays skyward and forcing carriers to cancel more routes.
At a bustling hub handling hundreds of daily departures, a 10% reduction can shave off dozens of flights—creating a domino effect that hits both domestic flyers and international travelers. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford warned that 'as we see staffing triggers, additional measures will follow,' signaling potential deeper cuts if the shutdown persists.
For young global citizens, business travelers, and digital nomads alike, the message is clear: double-check your booking status, allow extra layover time, and explore flexible tickets. Whether you're catching a transatlantic flight or hopping between U.S. cities, the sky isn't falling—but it's getting a bit more crowded on the ground.
As the shutdown rumbles on, staying informed and adaptable will be travelers' best bet—because in today's interconnected world, one 10% cut at 40 airports can send shockwaves to flight paths worldwide.
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U.S. to cut air traffic by 10% at 40 locations as shutdown rumbles on
cgtn.com
