U.S. air travel is experiencing significant disruption with thousands of flights canceled and delayed as a prolonged government shutdown, now in its 39th day, forces air traffic controllers to work without pay, leading to widespread fatigue and mandated capacity reductions.
More than 1,400 flights into, out of, or within the United States were canceled on Saturday.
Nearly 6,000 flights also faced delays that day, according to flight tracking firm FlightAware.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced plans to cut air traffic capacity by up to 10% at the nation’s 40 busiest airports.
This measure stems from reports of fatigue among air traffic controllers, who are deemed essential personnel and are working without compensation during the shutdown.
Unions representing these controllers have warned that the financial strain could lead to absenteeism or workers seeking alternative income, exacerbating staffing issues.
Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey recorded the most severe delays. Incoming flights averaged over four hours late on Saturday afternoon, with outgoing flights delayed by 1.5 hours.
Charlotte/Douglas International, Newark Liberty International, and Chicago O’Hare International airports saw the highest number of cancellations on Saturday.
The FAA’s reduction plan will be phased in, reaching the full 10% cut by November 14. This date is just ahead of the busy Thanksgiving holiday travel season.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy previously stated that private aircraft use at congested airports would be limited. This is to prioritize commercial flights and ensure controllers can focus on them.
The shutdown, which began on October 1, is now the longest in U.S. history.
Beyond air travel, the shutdown has broader impacts, including reductions in food assistance for American citizens.
Over 64,000 airport security personnel (TSA) are also working without pay. A similar shutdown in 2018 saw 10% of TSA staff opt to stay home rather than work for free.
Lawmakers in Washington D.C. remain divided on a funding resolution. Bipartisan negotiations continued over the weekend to find a solution.
American Airlines issued a statement Saturday, urging “leaders in Washington D.C. to find a way to end the shutdown immediately.”