US Airlines Ground 2,500 Weekend Flights Amid Ongoing Shutdown

U.S. airlines canceled more than 2,500 weekend flights by Saturday evening as the Federal Aviation Administration's mandate to reduce air traffic because of the government shutdown showed no signs of easing. The slowdown at many of the nation's busiest airports did not cause immediate widespread disruptions, but it deepened the impact felt by the nation's longest federal shutdown. Travelers like Emmy Holguin, 36, who was flying from Miami to see family in the Dominican Republic, expressed frustration and concern about the cancellations. "We all travel. We all have somewhere to be," Holguin said. "I'm hoping that the government can take care of this." Analysts warn that the upheaval will intensify and spread far beyond air travel if cancellations keep growing and reach into Thanksgiving week. The cancellations have already started to affect tourism destinations and holiday shipping, with concerns rising about the economic impact on local businesses and communities. "The shutdown is having a ripple effect on the entire economy, and air travel is just one part of it," said airline industry analyst, John Nance. "If this continues, it will have a significant impact on the holiday season." The Federal Aviation Administration's decision to reduce air traffic was made in an effort to conserve resources and prioritize essential services during the government shutdown. However, the move has caused widespread disruptions and cancellations, with many travelers left stranded or forced to rebook their flights. As the shutdown continues, international travelers are also feeling the effects. "The U.S. is one of the largest markets for international air travel, and the cancellations are causing problems for travelers from around the world," said a spokesperson for the International Air Transport Association. "We urge the U.S. government to find a solution to the shutdown as soon as possible to minimize the impact on air travel and the global economy." The current status of the shutdown and its impact on air travel remains uncertain, with no clear end in sight. The Federal Aviation Administration has stated that it will continue to monitor the situation and adjust its policies as needed to minimize disruptions. However, with Thanksgiving week approaching, the situation is likely to worsen, and travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest information on flight cancellations and rebooking procedures.