US Flight Cancellations Surge as Regulator Mandates Air Traffic Reductions

The recent surge in US flight cancellations has been attributed to an urgent directive from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This move aims to mitigate safety risks amid a severe shortage of air traffic controllers, exacerbated by an ongoing government shutdown.

FAA Mandates Air Traffic Reductions

On Thursday, the FAA mandated a temporary reduction in air traffic by 10% across the nation’s largest airports. This order is a direct response to a significant number of absences among air traffic controllers, who have been working without pay due to the government shutdown, which has now entered its 38th day.

Flight Cancellations Surge

FlightAware recorded over 790 cancellations on Friday alone. This figure is four times higher than Thursday’s total and is expected to rise, with reports of nearly 500 cancellations already for Saturday. The cancellation wave is tied to the FAA’s decision to prioritize safety as the air traffic situation deteriorates.

• Friday’s cancellations: 790
• Saturday’s early cancellations: approximately 500

Government Shutdown Impacts Air Travel

The current government shutdown has created a challenging environment for air traffic control operations. According to the FAA, the strain on the system is becoming apparent, with 2,740 delays reported at various airports over the past weekend. US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized that the decision to curtail flights is rooted in safety, not political motivations.

“Our number one job is safety. This isn’t about politics – it’s about assessing the data and alleviating building risk in the system,” Duffy stated. He reassured the public that flying remains safe despite these operational challenges.

Further Air Traffic Reductions Expected

The FAA’s plan outlines a phased reduction in air traffic, starting with a 4% cut on Friday, which will escalate to 10% by November 14. While airlines are not required to cancel international flights, they have the discretion to do so. Key airports affected include:

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta
• Dallas-Fort Worth
• Denver International
• Chicago O’Hare
• John F. Kennedy International in New York

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford indicated that further action may be necessary if conditions do not improve. The current flight reductions are particularly concerning as the US gears up for its busiest travel days at the end of November.

Context of Air Traffic Controller Shortage

The FAA employed over 14,000 air traffic controllers during the 2024 fiscal year. As part of the larger federal workforce, these controllers are among 730,000 “essential” employees working without pay, in addition to 670,000 who have been furloughed. The ongoing standoff in Congress over funding is adding pressure on air travel and safety systems across the nation.