FAA Plans Flight Reductions Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

On Thursday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is set to unveil a list of airports facing flight reductions as the government shutdown persists, now reaching a historic 37 days.

FAA Administrator Brian Bedford announced on Wednesday that the agency would cut flights by 10 percent across 40 major markets in the nation. This decision, effective Friday, comes in response to staffing shortages aggravated by funding lapses.

“We’re not going to wait for a significant safety problem to arise when early indicators suggest we can take preventive action now,” Bedford stated during a press briefing.

He reassured the public, saying, “The system is secure today and will remain so tomorrow. But if pressures continue, we may need to take further measures.”

Since the shutdown began on October 1, air traffic controllers have been working without pay, often putting in six-day weeks along with mandatory overtime. This situation has led to increased absenteeism among controllers, disrupting travel across the country.

According to the Associated Press, the reductions could impact up to 1,800 flights and around 268,000 available seats, based on estimates by aviation analytics firm Cirium.

Bedford emphasized, “The data shows we must do more, and we will. We want to assure American travelers that flying in U.S. airspace is absolutely safe.”

In a media announcement, FAA Administrator and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy revealed plans to meet with airline executives that same day to discuss the specifics of the flight reductions ahead of the public release of the full list.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby communicated on Wednesday that the airline is aligned with the FAA’s commitment to air safety and intends to cooperate with the agency, as it has directed all airlines to adjust their schedules during the shutdown.

The airline confirmed that these reductions would commence on Friday and mentioned that it would keep its schedule updated regularly.