Travelers through some of the busiest U.S. airports can expect to learn Thursday whether they will see fewer flights as the government shutdown drags into a second month.


The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is set to announce the reduction of flights in 40 high-volume markets by 10 percent, a move intended to enhance safety during the ongoing shutdown, which has significantly impacted staffing and operational capabilities.


Aviation experts anticipate that the reductions may lead to hundreds, if not thousands, of cancellations, potentially affecting upwards of 1,800 flights and 268,000 seats according to estimates from aviation analytics firm Cirium.


In my 35 years in the aviation market, I cannot recall a situation necessitating these kinds of measures, said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford on Wednesday. We are in unprecedented territory concerning government shutdowns.


What to do if you are facing flight disruptions during the government shutdown
As staffing shortages continue to cause delays at multiple airports, here is what you should know:

  • My flight was canceled. What now? If you are already at the airport, it’s essential to find another flight. Airlines will assist in rebooking at no extra charge, although alternate carrier rebookings are not guaranteed.

  • Am I entitled to a refund? If your flight is canceled, you are legally entitled to a full refund, regardless of whether your ticket was non-refundable.

  • Can I get compensation? Airlines are not obligated to provide compensation for lodging or meals subsequent to cancellations or delays.


Air traffic controllers have been required to work unpaid since the shutdown's commencement on October 1, with mandatory overtime overwhelming many, according to the agency. Controller working conditions are deteriorating, impacting their ability to cover essential expenses without second jobs, if they can even take time off without affecting their financial stability, Bedford noted.


We can no longer overlook these staffing pressures, Bedford declared during a press briefing. He emphasized that even if the shutdown were to end promptly, restoring operations would depend on the recovery of staffing levels.


While the specifics regarding affected cities and airports remain undisclosed, the FAA will consult with airline executives to ensure safe implementation of the flight reductions.


In light of ongoing pressures, major airlines and advocacy groups have been petitioning Congress for an end to the shutdown, which as of Wednesday, has set a historical record for duration.


Duffy, the Transportation Secretary, has voiced concerns that further delays will cause operational chaos if air traffic controllers miss their second paycheck, affecting their financial security and ability to perform their duties.


The shutdown is inducing significant stress on national air travel operations, with major implications for the public's confidence in the U.S. air travel experience, according to statements from Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association.


As the shutdown continues, staffing challenges have escalated. Over the past weekend, around 39 air traffic control facilities reported constraints significant enough to potentially disrupt operations.

The average operating issues reported has more than tripled amid these conditions compared to pre-shutdown circumstances, raising concerns for air travel reliability across the country.