The ongoing US government shutdown has triggered the cancellation of over 1,400 flights on Saturday as federally mandated air traffic cuts enter their second day, causing extensive travel disruptions and delays nationwide.
On Saturday, more than 1,400 flights to, from, or within the United States were cancelled, with nearly 6,000 additional flights experiencing delays, according to data from FlightAware. Major airports such as Newark Liberty International, Charlotte/Douglas International, and Chicago O’Hare International reported the highest number of cancellations. Arrivals at Newark were delayed by an average of over four hours, while departures faced delays of 1.5 hours, highlighting the widespread impact on travelers.
The Federal Aviation Administration issued an emergency order requiring airlines to reduce flight volumes by up to 10% at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports. This measure aims to maintain safety as air traffic controllers, who are essential workers not receiving pay during the shutdown, report fatigue and increased absenteeism. The cuts are being implemented gradually, starting at 4% on Friday and scheduled to rise to 6% by November 11, 8% by November 13, and the full 10% by November 14 if the shutdown persists.
Airlines have responded by cancelling hundreds of flights across their networks. American Airlines cut 220 flights through Monday, United Airlines cancelled 168 on Saturday with more planned through Tuesday, and Southwest Airlines reduced its schedule by about 100 flights on Saturday and 150 on Sunday. Delta Air Lines also reported over 140 cancellations, as carriers strive to comply with the FAA mandate and manage the operational chaos.
Travelers across the country faced significant inconveniences, with long security lines and uncertainty about their plans. Michele Cuthbert from Columbus, Ohio, expressed concern about potential cancellations ahead of her trip to Dallas, reflecting the anxiety among passengers. In response, major airlines are waiving change fees for affected passengers, and experts recommend booking directly with airlines, avoiding layovers, and purchasing travel insurance to mitigate risks.
The government shutdown, now in its 39th day and the longest in US history, has left 1.4 million federal workers, including air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration agents, working without pay. This has led to staffing shortages, as some employees call in sick or seek other work to make ends meet, exacerbating the travel disruptions. The situation echoes the 2018-2019 shutdown, where flight issues eventually pressured lawmakers to reach a resolution.
With the Thanksgiving holiday approaching on November 27, one of the busiest travel periods of the year, the disruptions could intensify. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that flight cuts could increase to 15-20% if the shutdown continues, potentially plunging travelers into ‘uncharted territory.’ The ongoing political impasse between Republicans and Democrats over funding has yet to see a breakthrough, with bipartisan negotiations underway but no immediate end in sight, leaving the aviation system in a precarious state.
