US Airlines Cancel Over 2,700 Flights Amid Ongoing Shutdown
U.S. airlines canceled more than 2,700 flights on Sunday as the effects of the federal government shutdown continued to ripple across the country’s air travel system.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had recently ordered reductions in flight schedules to manage air traffic, leading to significant delays and cancellations. The slowdown affects traffic at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports.
“Air traffic across the nation will slow to a trickle if the shutdown drags into the busy Thanksgiving travel season,” said Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
According to FlightAware, around 10,000 flight delays were reported just on Sunday. The disruptions have been compounded as some unpaid air traffic controllers stopped reporting for work after nearly a month without pay.
At major hubs such as Chicago O’Hare, Detroit Metropolitan, and New York’s LaGuardia airports, long lines formed at check-in counters and security checkpoints. Travelers faced growing frustration as cancellations mounted, and airlines struggled to rebook passengers.
Impact on Travelers
- American Airlines and its regional carrier American Eagle had multiple planes grounded.
- Passengers endured hours-long lines at major airports nationwide.
- The disruptions raised concerns about the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday travel surge.
Federal Response and Outlook
The FAA is balancing safety and staffing limitations while lawmakers work toward a resolution to end the shutdown. The agency warned that continued reductions in air traffic could severely strain the entire aviation system.
Author’s summary: A prolonged government shutdown has triggered over 2,700 flight cancellations and 10,000 delays, straining airports and travelers nationwide as the holiday season nears.