Urgent: 10% of Flights Set for Cancellation at 40 U.S. Airports

UPDATE: Starting Friday, November 7, 2023, 10% of flights will be cancelled at 40 major U.S. airports, as confirmed by U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy. This drastic move comes amid the ongoing government shutdown, which is crippling air travel and pushing the aviation system to a breaking point.

The announcement was made during a press conference where Duffy described the situation as a necessary “gut check.” With air traffic controllers already facing immense stress and fatigue, the cancellations are expected to trigger a logistical nightmare for travelers nationwide. Recent reports indicate that over 5,000 flights were delayed in just one day earlier this week, with the average delay at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) reaching one hour.

As air traffic controllers continue to work without pay, many have been forced to seek secondary employment to make ends meet. An anonymous controller revealed to NPR that a growing number are calling in sick to find paid work elsewhere. The current crisis is compounded by the fact that 90% of workplaces in the field were already understaffed before the shutdown began.

Duffy warned of “mass chaos” on the horizon, and as the shutdown prolongs, the situation will only worsen. National Air Traffic Controllers Association president Nick Daniels emphasized that “every single day this goes on, tomorrow is now less safe than today.” This alarming statement underscores the urgent need for a resolution.

Travelers should also brace for longer security lines as TSA workers face similar pay issues. Reports indicate security checkpoint waits have reached up to four-and-a-half hours at some airports, causing further frustration for those trying to catch flights.

With Thanksgiving just 21 days away, the potential for chaos looms larger. Last year, approximately 20 million Americans traveled during the Thanksgiving weekend, and airlines are anticipating another record-breaking holiday season. However, if the government shutdown continues through the holidays, the stress on workers and the impact on travel could be catastrophic. Daniels noted that recovery from the shutdown could take “weeks,” making timely action critical.

The interconnected nature of air travel means that the ripple effects of these cancellations will be felt across the country, regardless of airline efforts to mitigate disruptions. With snowy weather conditions anticipated, the impending reductions in flight traffic could signal the beginning of a chaotic travel experience that many are not prepared for.

Travelers are encouraged to monitor updates closely and plan accordingly as the situation develops. With the possibility of further cancellations and delays, the urgency to resolve the shutdown has never been greater.

Stay tuned for updates as this situation evolves.