The FAA's order to cut flights nationwide due to the government shutdown is set to take effect

The Federal Aviation Administration is implementing a nationwide reduction in flights beginning Friday due to the ongoing government shutdown. This measure impacts flights across more than two dozen states, affecting major hubs like Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, and Charlotte, as well as multiple airports in metropolitan areas such as New York, Houston, Chicago, and Washington. The FAA's order is a response to air traffic controllers working without pay for over a month, leading to exhaustion and increased absences. Airlines began canceling flights on Thursday in anticipation of the FAA's directive, with over 780 flights already called off nationwide. Delta plans to cancel about 170 flights on Friday, and American Airlines intends to cut 220 flights daily through Monday. The FAA stated the reductions will start at 4% and escalate to 10% by November 14, affecting commercial airlines between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. The flight reductions are necessary to alleviate the pressure on overworked air traffic controllers. Many controllers are working six-day weeks with mandatory overtime, and the financial strain and exhaustion are causing an increasing number to call out sick. Travelers with upcoming plans are advised to check the status of their flights, as the ripple effects of these cancellations could exte... download the app to read more