Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plans to cut air traffic by 10% at 40 busy airports starting Friday to maintain safety during a government shutdown. This decision is due to air traffic controllers working without pay since October 1, leading to staffing shortages and flight delays. The FAA aims to prevent further problems and will release a list of affected airports soon.
Key Facts
- The FAA will reduce air traffic by 10% in 40 high-volume areas starting Friday.
- Over 44,000 flights might be affected, including passenger, cargo, and private planes.
- Air traffic controllers have been working unpaid since the shutdown began on October 1.
- Staffing shortages have led to flight delays at several U.S. airports.
- FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated the need for action to prevent a crisis.
- There will be a meeting with airline executives to discuss implementation.
- The FAA plans to publish a list of affected markets.
- Major airlines are assessing the impact, and industry groups urge Congress to end the shutdown.
