UPDATE: U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy has confirmed that starting on Friday, November 7, 10% of flights will be canceled at 40 U.S. airports due to the ongoing government shutdown. This alarming announcement signals the beginning of a potential travel crisis that could impact millions of passengers.
The situation is dire as air traffic controllers, who are essential to managing flight safety and operations, are currently working without pay. Many are reportedly calling in sick to seek alternate employment, exacerbating staffing shortages and increasing stress levels among those still on the job. According to an anonymous controller, the lack of compensation is forcing workers to scramble for income to meet basic needs.
Last Sunday alone, approximately 5,000 flights to and from U.S. airports were delayed, with the average delay at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) reaching an hour. This is just the tip of the iceberg, as Duffy warned that these cancellations could lead to “mass chaos” in air travel logistics.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has termed the situation as causing “immense stress and fatigue” among air traffic controllers. With the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday just 21 days away, the implications of these cancellations could ripple into one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Last year, nearly 20 million Americans flew during Thanksgiving weekend, and airlines are bracing for a record holiday season.
Duffy indicated that the cancellations won’t be strategically coordinated to minimize traveler impact but instead will focus on reducing pressure on federal workers. This could result in a cascade of further delays and missed connections, straining travelers as they prepare for holiday journeys.
In addition to flight cancellations, travelers should also be prepared for long security lines at airports, as TSA workers are experiencing similar pay issues. Reports indicate that lines have reached up to four-and-a-half hours in some locations, creating further frustration for passengers.
As the shutdown continues, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association has raised concerns about safety, stating, “Every single day that this goes on, tomorrow is now less safe than today.” With challenging weather conditions also looming, the potential for travel disruptions increases significantly.
Travelers are urged to stay informed about their flight status and to be prepared for possible changes as airlines navigate this unprecedented situation. With the deadline approaching for Thanksgiving travel, officials emphasize the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing shutdown to prevent further deterioration of air travel conditions.
The next few days will be critical in determining the extent of the impact on holiday travel, and millions of Americans are anxiously watching as the situation unfolds.
