What Canadian Airlines Are Telling Travellers After Major U.S. Flight Disruptions
Even if travellers are not headed to an American destination, many cross-Canada routes pass through U.S. airspace, which may cause disruptions following the Federal Aviation Administration’s recent announcement.
FAA Reduces Air Traffic Due to Staffing Shortages
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated it would cut air traffic by 10 percent at 40 high-volume airports starting Friday. As of Friday morning, flight tracking service FlightAware reported over 800 U.S.-linked flights cancelled or delayed.
Impact of the Ongoing U.S. Government Shutdown
The U.S. government has been shut down since October 1, marking the longest shutdown in the nation’s history. Many air traffic controllers have been working without pay for nearly six weeks, resulting in staff shortages and growing delays.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said, "We cannot wait until the situation reaches a crisis point," adding that both he and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy were responding to reports of fatigue among controllers.
Possible Consequences for Canadian Travellers
Canadian airlines are monitoring the situation closely, as reduced U.S. air traffic and staffing shortages could indirectly affect flights across Canada that operate in shared airspace with the United States.
Author’s summary: The FAA’s decision to limit air traffic amid unpaid controller shortages may cause ripple effects for Canadian flights that depend on U.S. airspace routes.