US Air Travel Disruptions Continue Amid Federal Government Shutdown
More than 1,000 flights to, from, or within the United States were cancelled on Saturday, marking the second day of significant air travel disruptions. Additionally, nearly 4,000 flights experienced delays, a reduction from over 7,000 delays reported on Friday. These cancellations and delays follow a directive from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to reduce air traffic capacity.
Capacity Reductions and Controller Fatigue
Earlier in the week, the FAA announced plans to decrease air travel capacity by up to 10% across 40 of the nation's busiest airports. This measure was implemented due to reports of fatigue among air traffic controllers, who are continuing to work without pay during the ongoing federal government shutdown. The shutdown, which commenced on October 1, has seen Republicans and Democrats in Congress remain divided regarding a resolution.
Impact on Key Airports
Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey recorded some of the longest wait times. As of Saturday afternoon, arrivals to Newark were delayed by an average of over four hours, with departures experiencing an average delay of 1.5 hours. According to FlightAware data, the airports with the highest number of cancellations on Saturday included Charlotte/Douglas International, Newark Liberty International, and Chicago O'Hare International.
Other major airports also reported significant delays. Departures from John F. Kennedy International were delayed by nearly three hours, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International by over 2.5 hours, and LaGuardia by approximately one hour, as per FAA reports on Saturday afternoon.
Upcoming Travel Season and Further Reductions
With the Thanksgiving holiday approaching on November 27, the US is entering one of its busiest annual travel periods. Restrictions have also been extended to private jets. Secretary Duffy stated on X that their volume at high-traffic airports has been reduced, with private jets directed to utilize smaller airfields. This policy aims to allow controllers to prioritize commercial aviation.
The FAA has outlined a gradual increase in flight reductions. Beginning with 4% of flights on Friday, the reductions are scheduled to rise to 6% by November 11, 8% by November 13, and reach the full 10% by November 14. The agency asserts these cuts are necessary to uphold safety standards, citing the increased workload on air traffic controllers during the shutdown. Unions report that these essential workers, required to operate without pay, have subsequently taken sick leave or sought additional employment to meet financial needs.