Government Shutdown Grounds 10% of US Flights at 40 Major Airports

The US government shutdown has led to a significant reduction in air travel, with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announcing that the number of flights at 40 major airports will be decreased by 10 percent. This decision, which took effect on Friday morning, is expected to impact approximately 3,500 to 4,000 flights daily. The move is aimed at maintaining the safety of air travel, according to Duffy, who stated, "We don't want the horse out of the barn and then to look back and say there were issues we could have taken that we didn't." Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford added that the FAA will be meeting with airline leaders to develop a plan for implementing the reductions. The decision to reduce flights was made in response to the ongoing government shutdown, which has resulted in air traffic controllers missing their first full paycheck. This has led to concerns about the potential for flight delays and disruptions. Bedford noted that the FAA is working to mitigate these risks, stating, "As we slice the data more granularly, we are seeing pressures build in a way that we don't feel comfortable with." The reductions are expected to be implemented at airports across the country, including major hubs such as New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport. The government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025, is the longest in US history, with many federal agencies and services affected. The shutdown has resulted in the furlough of thousands of government employees, including air traffic controllers, who are essential to the safe operation of air travel. The FAA has been working to maintain air traffic control services despite the shutdown, but the reduction in flights is a measure to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. Industry experts have expressed concerns about the impact of the shutdown on air travel, with some predicting that the reductions could lead to increased flight delays and cancellations. "This is a very challenging situation, and we are doing everything we can to mitigate the effects," said Bedford. The FAA has been working closely with airlines and other stakeholders to develop a plan for implementing the reductions and minimizing disruptions to air travel. The current status of air travel remains uncertain, with the FAA continuing to work with airlines and other stakeholders to implement the reductions and maintain the safety of air travel. The next developments in this situation will likely depend on the outcome of the government shutdown, which is expected to continue until a new budget is passed. In the meantime, passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest information on flight schedules and availability.