US Airlines Face Widespread Cancellations Amid Ongoing Shutdown
More than 2,700 flights across the United States were canceled on Sunday as the ongoing government shutdown continued to disrupt air travel nationwide. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had earlier ordered reduced air traffic, intensifying the situation across major airports.
Growing Impact on Major Airports
According to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, air traffic could “slow to a trickle” if the shutdown persists into the busy Thanksgiving travel season. The slowdown, now in its third day, has spread to 40 of the country’s busiest airports, creating significant passenger delays and logistical challenges.
FAA Workforce Shortages
The FAA’s directive to cut flights follows a sharp decline in staff attendance among air traffic controllers, many of whom have gone nearly a month without pay. Their absence has forced schedule reductions and longer wait times across the national airspace system.
Traveler Disruptions and Delays
Scenes of long lines and frustrated travelers were common at airports including Chicago O’Hare, Detroit Metropolitan, and New York’s LaGuardia on Sunday. FlightAware, a travel tracking service, recorded nearly 10,000 delays in addition to the widespread cancellations.
“Air traffic could slow to a trickle if the shutdown continues into the holiday season,” said Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
Airlines Struggle to Maintain Operations
American Airlines and its regional carrier, American Eagle, were among the hardest hit, with numerous aircraft grounded at gates as airports across the nation worked to adapt to the FAA’s restricted flight schedules.
Author’s summary: The federal shutdown forced U.S. airlines to cancel over 2,700 flights as reduced FAA staffing and operational limits caused nationwide travel disruptions.