FAA cutting air traffic by 10% amid shutdown strain

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will reduce air traffic by 10% across 40 major markets starting Friday to maintain safety as unpaid air traffic controllers struggle during the ongoing government shutdown. 

The move could affect up to 1,800 flights and 268,000 seats daily, according to Cirium data.

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said the decision aims to prevent fatigue-related safety risks among controllers working six-day workweeks with mandatory overtime.

Airlines, including United, American, and Southwest, pledged to minimize passenger disruption. United CEO Scott Kirby assured long-haul and hub-to-hub flights will remain unaffected, with refunds offered where necessary.

Industry analysts warn that the short notice could cause scheduling chaos in airlines. Travel groups and unions are urging Congress to end the shutdown, calling the cuts a severe disruption to national aviation safety.