Over 1,000 US Flights Grounded Again as FAA Cuts Traffic Amid Government Shutdown
US airlines cancelled over 1,000 flights for the second consecutive day on Saturday as Federal Aviation Administration mandates to reduce air traffic continue during the government shutdown. While widespread disruptions haven’t occurred yet, analysts warn the situation could intensify and spread beyond air travel if cancellations continue into Thanksgiving week.
Key Takeaways
- Over 1,000 flights cancelled for second straight day due to FAA mandate
- Charlotte airport hardest hit with 130 cancellations; Atlanta, Chicago, Denver also affected
- Staffing shortages worsen as air traffic controllers work without pay
- Flight reductions expected to reach 10% by Friday if shutdown continues
Flight Cancellation Numbers Continue to Rise
Flight disruptions increased on Saturday, typically a slow travel day, with cancellations exceeding 1,000 for the second day according to FlightAware. Charlotte Douglas International Airport was the most affected with 130 arriving and departing flights cancelled by mid-afternoon.
Major airports in Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, and Newark, New Jersey, also experienced significant disruptions. Ongoing staffing shortages at radar centers and control towers contributed to additional cancellations and delays at several East Coast airports, including those serving New York City.
The FAA confirmed reductions affecting all commercial airlines are starting at 4% of flights at 40 targeted airports, increasing on Tuesday before reaching 10% by Friday. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that further flight cuts might be necessary if the government shutdown continues and more air traffic controllers leave their positions.
Why Flights Are Being Cancelled
Air traffic controllers have worked nearly a month without paychecks during the shutdown, leading to increased sick calls that exacerbate existing staffing shortages. Most controllers are working mandatory overtime six days weekly without compensation, with some taking second jobs to manage expenses, according to the National Air Traffic Controllers Association.
Passenger Impact and Travel Disruptions
Most passengers found airlines largely maintained schedules on Friday, with affected travelers able to rebook quickly. International flights have remained uninterrupted so far.
However, uncertainty about future cancellations creates challenges for travelers. “Travel is stressful enough. Then you put these disruptions in place and it really makes everything more challenging,” said Heather Xu, 46, who was flying from Miami to Puerto Rico after a cruise.
Not all travelers can afford last-minute hotel stays or manage unexpected disruptions. Rental car companies reported sharp increases in one-way reservations, while some passengers are cancelling flights entirely to avoid the uncertainty.
“We all travel. We all have somewhere to be. I’m hoping that the government can take care of this.” – Emmy Holguin, Miami traveler
The situation has raised concerns about impacts on tourism destinations and holiday shipping as the shutdown continues.
