by Washington, D.C. — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered airlines to reduce air traffic at 40 major airports nationwide, prompting hundreds of flight cancellations over the coming days as the U.S. government shutdown continues into its 37th day, the longest in American history.
Flight Reductions Begin
The FAA’s order began on Friday with a 4 percent reduction in traffic, set to increase to 10 percent by November 14. The reductions apply daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time and impact all commercial domestic flights at the nation’s busiest airports.
The move comes as air traffic controllers work without pay, creating a strained system that officials say could compromise safety if air traffic is not reduced.
Immediate Impact
On Friday alone, more than 800 flights were cancelled, according to FlightAware, affecting tens of thousands of travelers. The FAA cautioned that flight disruptions are expected to increase in the coming days, particularly as the Thanksgiving travel season approaches.
Airlines have advised passengers to monitor their apps and airline websites for updates. Travelers whose flights are cancelled are eligible for full refunds, although secondary expenses such as food and hotel accommodations will only be covered if the delay or cancellation is directly within the airline’s control, the Department of Transportation said.
Airports Affected
The reductions affect 40 major domestic airports across the country. Key airports include:
- Alaska: Anchorage International
- California: Los Angeles International, Oakland International, Ontario International, San Diego International, San Francisco International
- Georgia: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International
- Massachusetts: Boston Logan International
- Maryland: Baltimore/Washington International
- North Carolina: Charlotte Douglas International
- Kentucky: Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International, Louisville International
- Texas: Dallas Love Field, Dallas/Fort Worth International, George Bush Houston Intercontinental, Houston Hobby
- Virginia: Ronald Reagan Washington National, Washington Dulles International
- Colorado: Denver International
- Michigan: Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County
- New Jersey: Newark Liberty International, Teterboro
- Florida: Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International, Orlando International, Miami International, Tampa International
- Hawaii: Honolulu International
- Indiana: Indianapolis International
- New York: John F. Kennedy International, LaGuardia Airport
- Nevada: Harry Reid International (Las Vegas)
- Illinois: Chicago Midway International, Chicago O’Hare International
- Minnesota: Minneapolis/St. Paul International
- Oregon: Portland International
- Pennsylvania: Philadelphia International
- Arizona: Phoenix Sky Harbor International
- Utah: Salt Lake City International
- Washington: Seattle/Tacoma International
What Travelers Should Know
Passengers are urged to check airline websites for updates on cancellations, refunds, and other travel information. While full refunds are guaranteed for cancelled flights, airlines may not cover additional costs such as meals or hotels unless directly caused by the airline.
With holiday travel approaching, the FAA and airlines are encouraging travelers to plan ahead and stay informed to avoid disruptions.
What Do You Think?
Have your flights been affected by the FAA order? How are you adjusting your travel plans during the government shutdown? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
