The American aviation sector is buckling under the pressure of the longest government shutdown in the nation's history, leading to thousands of cancelled flights, extensive delays at major airports, and widespread frustration among travellers.
Unprecedented Flight Reductions
In a drastic move, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) instructed airlines last week to reduce their domestic flight schedules. This directive aims to alleviate strain on an overburdened system and assist with managing air traffic control staffing shortages.
The core of the problem lies with unpaid air traffic controllers. Having gone without a salary for over a month, many have started calling in sick, citing immense stress and the necessity to find secondary employment. This has resulted in critical understaffing at control towers and facilities across the country.
The Shutdown by the Numbers
The data reveals the severe impact on US air travel. The FAA has mandated flight cancellations at 40 major US airports since November 7. This list spans more than two dozen states and includes key hubs like New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
Furthermore, at 12 of these 40 airports, the agency extended restrictions to limit business jets and numerous private flights.
The FAA initially ordered a 4% reduction in flight schedules, with an ultimate target of a 10% cut expected to take effect. The agency has stated these restrictions will remain until staffing levels stabilise and safety metrics improve, even if the shutdown concludes.
According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 1.9 million daily passengers use the 40 airports where flights have been reduced. Since the shutdown began on October 1, Airlines for America reports that 5.2 million passengers have been affected by staffing-related delays or cancellations.
The flight tracking site FlightAware recorded 9,500 flights cancelled between November 7 and mid-day Wednesday.
Staffing Crisis and Economic Fallout
An Associated Press analysis of operations plans highlights the staffing crisis. On average, 30 air traffic control facilities experienced staffing issues during the six weekends since the shutdown started—almost four times the pre-shutdown number.
Amid the turmoil, President Donald Trump suggested air traffic controllers should receive a $10,000 bonus if they did not miss work, while also threatening to dock the pay of those who did not stay on the job.
The economic repercussions are staggering. Airlines for America estimates that once the FAA's 10% flight cuts are fully implemented, the daily impact on the US economy will range from $285 million to $580 million. This figure accounts for reduced visitor spending, lost state and local tax revenue, and wider economic effects.
Associated Press journalist Christopher L. Keller contributed from Albuquerque, New Mexico.
