🔗 Share this article Federal Authorities Reduces US Air Travel as Shutdown Continues Amid the unprecedented federal government closure approaches day 38, US airspace are set to become somewhat quieter. The same cannot be said for US airports. Precautionary Steps Put in Place The current administration's air traffic agency has said flights are being reduced to maintain air traffic control security during the federal government shutdown, now the longest recorded and with little indication of a resolution between conservative legislators and Democrats to end the federal budget deadlock. Aviation authorities selected “busiest routes” where the FAA says air traffic must be reduced by 4% by 6am ET on Friday, a step requiring airlines to cancel thousands of flights and trigger a series of scheduling complications and hold-ups at major US air terminals. Government Commentary The federal transportation leader, Sean Duffy, wrote on X Thursday that the decision was “not politically driven” but rather “about assessing the data and mitigating building risk in the system as air traffic professionals continue working without pay”. “Air travel remains secure today, tomorrow, and the day after because of the forward-thinking steps we are taking,” Duffy added. Travel Disruptions Experts predict hundreds or even thousands of flights could be canceled. These reductions could represent up to 1,800 flights and more than 268,000 seats collectively, according to an calculation by the aviation analytics firm Cirium. Targeted Terminals The affected airports spanning over 25 states include the highest-volume locations across the US – such as Georgia's capital, Charlotte, Colorado's hub, Texas metroplex, MCO, Los Angeles, Miami and San Francisco. Within major metropolitan areas – like NYC, Houston and Illinois hub – multiple airports will be impacted. All three airports serving the DC metro – IAD, BWI and Ronald Reagan Washington national – will be involved, likely creating delays and cancellations for lawmakers as well as the flying public. Related Updates Below is the compilation of American air terminals cutting flights on Friday because of federal government funding lapse. A previous justice department staffer who tossed food at a federal officer during the current law enforcement surge in the capital was acquitted of assault by a DC jury on Thursday marking another legal setback of the federal action. Certain Democratic lawmakers interpreted Tuesday’s major voting successes as evidence they should stand firm and secure the best deal from conservative lawmakers before agreeing to end the record-breaking budget standoff in history. Liberal lawmakers commended Nancy Pelosi as a “heroic, trailblazing” member of the US House of Representatives, an “legend” and the “most accomplished leader in American history”, following her announcement that following two decades in Congress she will leave office. Kevin Roberts, the leader of the right-leaning policy organization behind Project 2025, expressed regret for endorsing the host's interview with Hitler supporter Nick Fuentes, but is resisting calls to resign.