US Government Shutdown Triggers Mass Flight Cancellations
More than 750 flights across the United States were cancelled on Friday amid growing operational disruption caused by the ongoing federal government shutdown. The cancellations began late Thursday and affected several major airports, including those in New York, Chicago, Atlanta, and Dallas. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) directed airlines to scale back operations due to staffing shortages at key air traffic control centers.
Shutdown’s Impact on Aviation Services
The FAA has warned of a possible 10 percent reduction in flights at 40 major airports if the shutdown continues through the weekend. Thousands of unpaid air traffic controllers, safety inspectors, and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staff have been working under increasing pressure, raising concerns about fatigue and safety oversight. The shutdown has already delayed certification processes and maintenance checks for several airlines.
Travellers Face Widespread Delays
Passengers across the country faced long queues, cancellations, and rescheduled flights, especially ahead of the busy travel weekend. Airlines have advised travellers to monitor schedules closely and expect extended delays as the situation evolves. Industry analysts warn that if the shutdown persists, disruptions could worsen, potentially affecting international flights and cargo operations as well.
