Government Shutdown Forces Major Flight Cancellations Across U.S. Airports

The ongoing government shutdown in the United States is having a significant impact on the aviation sector, leading to widespread flight cancellations and disruptions. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated a 4% reduction in air traffic at 40 major airports, a figure that is expected to escalate to 10% in the coming days.

This decision arises from a shortage of unpaid air traffic controllers and is aimed at ensuring safety amid growing concerns. Major airlines like United, Southwest, and Delta have begun to cancel flights, with estimates suggesting that up to 1,800 flights could be affected, resulting in the loss of 268,000 seats.

Airports in key cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are particularly hard-hit. As air travel chaos looms, airlines are striving to manage disruptions by adjusting their schedules.

The situation is precarious, with experts warning of further complications if a resolution is not reached before the busy holiday season. The repercussions of the shutdown extend beyond aviation, affecting various sectors and raising alarms about the broader implications for the economy.