UPDATE: Major flight disruptions are hitting Southern California airports TODAY as the FAA enforces a 6% cut in flight capacity across the United States. Travelers are facing chaos with dozens of cancellations and significant delays, leaving many stranded or scrambling for alternate arrangements.
This urgent situation unfolded on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, with 1,201 flights canceled and 1,528 delays reported nationwide, according to FlightAware. At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), 53 flights had been delayed and 38 canceled by 7 a.m. Tuesday alone. Other regional airports are not spared: Hollywood Burbank Airport reported 4 delays and 1 cancellation, while John Wayne Airport in Orange County had 3 delays and 6 cancellations.
The FAA’s decision to limit capacity stems from ongoing staffing issues, particularly among air traffic controllers who have not been paid in over a month. In a statement, the FAA emphasized that public safety is at risk, prompting the agency to mandate domestic airlines to reduce their flight schedules by 4% last week, which escalated to 6% on Tuesday and could rise to 10% by Friday.
As the crisis worsens, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy indicated that flight reductions will continue until safety metrics improve and staffing levels stabilize at air traffic control facilities. In a related development, the Senate passed legislation on Monday aimed at reopening the government, but the bill still awaits approval in the House, potentially prolonging the turmoil for travelers.
The impact of these cancellations is immediate and widespread, affecting thousands of passengers who planned to travel during this busy season. With at least 799 flights already canceled for Wednesday, travelers are urged to check their flight status and make contingency plans.
As authorities work to resolve these issues, travelers are advised to stay informed and prepared for further disruptions. The situation is evolving rapidly, and more updates are expected throughout the day.
Stay tuned for more information as it develops.
