Government Shutdown: FAA Reducing Flights in 40 High-Volume Markets
As the government shutdown enters its second month, travelers through some of the busiest U.S. airports can expect to see a reduction in flights. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced that it will be reducing flights by 10% in 40 “high-volume markets” due to staffing pressures caused by the shutdown. This move is intended to keep the air space safe during the shutdown, according to FAA administrator Bryan Bedford.
The reduction in flights could result in hundreds, if not thousands, of flights being canceled. According to an estimate by aviation analytics firm Cirium, the cuts could represent as many as 1,800 flights and upwards of 268,000 seats combined. Bedford stated that he is not aware of any situation in his 35-year history in the aviation market where such measures have been taken, emphasizing that “we’re in new territory in terms of government shutdowns.”
Air Traffic Controllers Working Unpaid
Air traffic controllers have been working unpaid since the shutdown began on October 1. Most work mandatory overtime six days a week, leaving little time for side jobs to help cover bills and other expenses unless they call out. The mounting staffing pressures are forcing the agency to act, with Bedford stating that “we can’t ignore it.” Even if the shutdown ends before Friday, the FAA won’t automatically resume normal operations until staffing improves and stabilizes.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that there could be chaos in the skies if the shutdown drags on long enough for air traffic controllers to miss their second full paycheck next week. Some controllers are struggling to pay for transportation to work, and the situation is becoming increasingly dire. Duffy emphasized that while some controllers can get by missing one paycheck, not two or more.
Staffing can run short both in regional control centers that manage multiple airports and in individual airport towers, but they don’t always lead to flight disruptions. However, the past weekend brought some of the worst staffing issues since the start of the shutdown, with at least 39 air traffic control facilities reporting potential staffing limits from Friday to Sunday evening.
Impact on the Aviation Industry
The shutdown is putting unnecessary strain on the system and “forcing difficult operational decisions that disrupt travel and damage confidence in the U.S. air travel experience,” said U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman in a statement. Major airlines, aviation unions, and the broader travel industry have been urging Congress to end the shutdown, which on Wednesday became the longest on record.
For more information on the government shutdown and its impact on the aviation industry, visit Here
Image Source: www.twincities.com
