Thousands of Flights Canceled as FAA Cuts Amid Ongoing Shutdown

UPDATE: Thousands of flights are being canceled and delayed AGAIN as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enacts drastic service reductions due to severe air traffic controller shortages amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, now in its 41st day.

As of 8 p.m. on November 10, 2023, a staggering 2,747 flights have been canceled, with an additional 8,337 delays reported across U.S. airports. The FAA has ordered a 4% reduction in flights at 40 major airports, causing significant ripple effects even at smaller locations.

Transportation Secretary Pete Duffy pointed out that many controllers who are showing up for work are not being paid, leading to extreme fatigue and compromised safety. “The fatigue has led to the erosion of safety and the increased risk every day that this shutdown drags on,” said Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association.

Among the hardest-hit locations, Chicago O’Hare International Airport experienced a major snowstorm, resulting in 321 canceled departures—about 23% of flights—and over 1,000 delays, with wait times averaging more than 6 hours. Travelers are feeling the impact personally; one couple, Grace Butler and her boyfriend, faced a two-hour standstill on the road due to their flight cancellation, stating, “Have lived in Chicago my whole life and never seen a blizzard this bad.”

Other major airports facing disruptions include Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, with 150 cancellations (12%) for arrivals, and LaGuardia Airport in New York, reporting 86 cancellations (15%) for departures.

In an alarming statement, President Donald Trump urged air traffic controllers to “get back to work, NOW,” threatening negative marks for those who don’t comply. He announced intentions to reward those who continue working with a potential $10,000 bonus for their service to the country.

Duffy echoed Trump’s sentiments, thanking controllers for their patriotism but acknowledged the long-term implications of the shutdown on air travel safety. “It’s going to be harder for me to come back after the shutdown and have more controllers controlling the airspace,” he said, signaling that the fallout would extend well beyond the end of the shutdown.

American Airlines’ chief operating officer, David Seymour, condemned the situation, stating, “This is simply unacceptable, and everyone deserves better.” He called for immediate payment for air traffic controllers rather than waiting until after the shutdown resolves.

With weather complications and equipment issues compounding the problem, travelers are urged to stay updated on their flight statuses. The FAA’s staffing crisis is emerging as a critical concern, with the safety of the flying public hanging in the balance.

As this situation continues to develop, travelers and industry stakeholders alike are left wondering what further disruptions lie ahead. Stay tuned for more urgent updates as this story unfolds.