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US Shutdown Spurs Flight Reductions at 40 Airports
FAA orders flight reductions at 40 major U.S. airports as controllers work without pay.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has directed a 4% cut in scheduled operations at 40 major U.S. airports starting November 7 to ease strain on air traffic controllers working without pay during the government shutdown. Airlines including Delta Air Lines (DL), American Airlines (AA) and United Airlines (UA) have already begun canceling hundreds of daily flights; officials warn cancellations could rise toward 10% by November 14 if the shutdown continues.
The reductions will affect a wide mix of domestic routes and hubs. D.C.-area airports are among the hardest hit, with reports of up to 85 flights lost per day in the region. Carriers say the step is to protect safety margins and reduce workload on controllers handling fewer resources while operations continue.
Why the flight reductions are happening
FAA leaders say the temporary limits free up controller staffing and reduce traffic complexity so crews can work safely while pay and staffing questions remain unresolved. The move is operational — not a regulatory grounding — and aims to keep the system more predictable for both crews and passengers. Airlines are offering flexible rebooking and full refunds for affected travelers.
- Check flight status and airline alerts — confirm changes and rebooking options due to flight reductions.
- Enroll devices for airline notifications and monitor airport advisories.
- Request refunds or flexible rebookings from your carrier if your itinerary is canceled.
- Plan extra time at airports and pack essentials in carry-on luggage in case of same-day cancellations.
For now, the FAA and airlines are balancing continuity of service with a reduced schedule. Travelers booked on impacted days should expect more cancellations or longer connections and prepare accordingly. If the shutdown is resolved, the FAA has indicated limits could be eased quickly; if it persists, the agency and carriers may extend or deepen reductions beyond November 14.
