Hundreds of flights across the United States have been cancelled due to ongoing federal government shutdown, leading to significant travel disruptions and passenger delays. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated air traffic reductions, impacting numerous airports and raising concerns about the escalating situation. Charlotte Douglas International Airport reported over 130 cancellations by Saturday afternoon, with major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, and Newark also experiencing severe disruptions. These reductions, currently affecting 4% of flights at 40 airports, are projected to rise to 10% if the shutdown continues. The root cause of these cancellations is a critical staffing shortage among air traffic controllers who have been working for weeks without pay. Many controllers are reporting sick or taking on additional jobs, while others are forced into mandatory overtime. Transportation officials have warned that further flight cuts may be inevitable. While international long-haul flights have largely remained on schedule, domestic travelers are facing stress, rebooking challenges, and last-minute changes, with some opting to cancel trips entirely as the holiday season looms. The shutdown’s impact also extends to American military bases overseas, where thousands of unpaid local employees in Europe are facing financial hardship. Host governments are stepping in to cover salaries in some locations, underscoring the widespread economic strain caused by the federal impasse.
