US Flights Could Be Cut by Up to 20% Due to Government Shutdown

Kokcha News Agency – In an interview with Fox News, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted the severe consequences of the ongoing government shutdown on air travel safety and operations. He stated that air traffic controllers are currently working without pay, and if the shutdown persists, more controllers may fail to report for duty, potentially forcing flight reductions of 15–20%.

To manage the growing pressure, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had earlier announced a phased reduction in flight capacity across 40 major US airports, starting with a 4% cut on November 7, escalating to 10% by November 14. US airlines have already begun canceling hundreds of flights in response to these measures.

Duffy emphasized that while the government is committed to ensuring passenger safety, the situation remains volatile. If controller attendance improves and operational stress eases, flight capacity could be restored. However, prolonged uncertainty threatens to disrupt travel plans and aviation operations nationwide.