UPDATE: A significant reduction in U.S. flight volume is wreaking havoc on air travel as the ongoing government shutdown continues to impact operations. As of early Saturday, 755 flights across the country have been canceled, with more than 1,000 additional cancellations expected for Sunday, November 5, 2023, according to data from FlightAware.com. This crisis is escalating, with Friday alone witnessing a staggering 1,000 cancellations.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is grappling with increased absenteeism among air traffic controllers, who are essential government employees working without pay. This situation is prompting an alarming rise in flight cancellations, with projections indicating that 10% of domestic flights could be canceled by next week. The FAA has confirmed that reductions will affect operations at 40 airports nationwide.
Airlines are responding to these challenges with significant flight reductions. United Airlines has published a comprehensive list of canceled flights through Sunday, citing lower travel volumes during early November as a reason for available rebooking options. Delta and American Airlines are encouraging customers to utilize their apps for updates and rebooking.
In a statement, aviation expert Chris Dane emphasized the potential for a rapid recovery once the shutdown concludes, saying, “The FAA will have really a snapback… it’ll snap back very quickly within a couple of days for sure.”
Passengers are advised to take proactive measures if their flights are impacted. Airlines are extending flexible policies, with United offering refunds or free rescheduling for anyone traveling between November 6 and 13. Delta and American Airlines are similarly allowing refunds for travelers scheduled between November 7 and 9, even for those with non-refundable tickets.
The shutdown’s effects are also rippling through the cargo sector. FedEx announced that they are making operational adjustments to comply with the FAA’s flight capacity orders, ensuring that critical shipments, including lifesaving pharmaceuticals and medical devices, continue to move through their network without disruption.
With the situation evolving rapidly, travelers are urged to stay informed about their flight status and explore alternative arrangements. As the shutdown persists, the aviation industry faces mounting pressure, and the immediate future of air travel remains uncertain.
For the latest updates, passengers should monitor their airline’s communications closely and be prepared for potential delays and cancellations in the coming days.
