US Government Shutdown Causes Widespread Flight Delays and Cancellations
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The ongoing US government shutdown has led to significant disruptions in air travel, with thousands of flights delayed or canceled due to air traffic controller shortages.
The United States is experiencing significant air travel disruptions as the federal government shutdown enters its 40th day. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that air traffic could be "reduced to a trickle" if the impasse continues. On Sunday, over 2,900 flights within, into, or out of the US were canceled, and approximately 8,600 were delayed, according to FlightAware. Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey reported average delays exceeding two hours.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced plans to reduce air traffic capacity by up to 10% at 40 major airports by next weekend. This measure aims to address staffing shortages among air traffic controllers, who have been working without pay since the shutdown began on October 1. Duffy highlighted the potential impact on upcoming holiday travel, stating that many travelers may not be able to fly home for Thanksgiving if the situation persists.
The shutdown has also affected other sectors, with hundreds of thousands of federal workers unpaid and food assistance programs in limbo. Lawmakers are engaged in negotiations to resolve the funding deadlock, but as of Sunday, no agreement had been reached. Both parties continue to blame each other for the ongoing crisis.
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