More than 1,200 U.S. flights were canceled Friday as a federal government shutdown strains air traffic control operations, with 40 major airports—including Atlanta, Chicago, and Los Angeles—facing gradual reductions. The cuts, starting at 4% and potentially rising to 10%, highlight the deepening political stalemate between Republicans and Democrats over budget disputes and healthcare subsidies.
Federal employees, including unpaid air traffic controllers, are either furloughed or working without pay amid the six-week funding crisis. Travelers at hubs like Hartsfield-Jackson and O'Hare faced delays exceeding two hours, with FlightAware reporting over 6,800 delays and 200 cancellations Thursday. Airlines like American, Delta, and Southwest canceled hundreds of flights daily, sparking concerns ahead of Thanksgiving travel.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy urged Democrats to support a House-passed funding bill, while critics argue the Republican-controlled Congress must address healthcare cuts. Retiree Werner Buchi at New York's LaGuardia warned, "This will get serious if things drag on to Thanksgiving," reflecting public frustration as holiday plans hang in the balance.
Despite assurances from officials that flying remains safe, aviation workers report increasing stress, with some taking second jobs to offset lost wages. The shutdown's ripple effects now directly impact millions, underscoring the urgency for bipartisan resolution.
