US’s biggest airports ut flights amid government shutdown - Reuters
Airlines call for an end to the U.S. government shutdown (Photo: Getty Images)
In the US, flight schedules will be reduced by 10% at the 40 busiest airports due to air traffic safety concerns amid a record 36-day government shutdown, Reuters reports.
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the new rules affecting major airports serving New York, Washington, Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Dallas.
Analysts estimate the cuts could impact up to 1,800 flights and more than 268,000 passenger seats. International flights will remain unaffected for now.
US government shutdown
The US government shutdown has become the longest in the country’s history, leaving 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 TSA employees working without pay. As a result, tens of thousands of flights have already been delayed, and over 3.2 million passengers have faced disruptions due to staff shortages.
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized that the flight reductions could be reversed if Democrats agree to reopen the government. The FAA also warned of potential further restrictions on flights if air traffic problems worsen.
Airlines are urging an end to the shutdown, highlighting the risks to passenger safety.
On Wednesday alone, more than 2,100 flights were delayed, and some air traffic controllers did not report to work, increasing the workload on remaining staff.
US government shutdown – beginning and causes
The current US government shutdown began on October 1, marking the longest work stoppage in the country’s history. For 37 days, federal offices have remained closed, and hundreds of thousands of employees have gone without pay.
The shutdown continues due to disagreements between Democrats and Republicans over healthcare funding. Democrats are demanding the continuation of subsidies for health insurance, while Republicans refuse to agree.
President Donald Trump and Republican leaders are pushing to increase pressure on Democrats, highlighting the negative impact on ordinary Americans and urging them to agree to reopen the government.
