US to Cut Flights from Friday Amid Shutdown

The decision, which is expected to affect only domestic flights, was made because air traffic controllers were complaining of fatigue, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said in a briefing with Chao.

Nearly 1.4 million federal employees, from air traffic controllers to park rangers, are working without pay – or are on forced leave – because the US Congress has failed to agree on a federal funding budget.

Unions say many employees are falling ill due to stress or are being forced to take on second jobs.

On Wednesday, the standoff became the longest government shutdown in US history.

"This is unusual, just as the shutdown is unusual, just as the fact that our controllers haven't been paid in a month is unusual," FAA Administrator Brian Bedell said of the planned flight cuts.

Reuters news agency, citing four unnamed sources, reported that the flight cuts would be phased in gradually, starting with a 4% reduction in domestic flights on Friday, rising to 5% on Saturday and 6% on Sunday, and reaching the full 10% next week.

Officials said the names of the affected airports – all high-traffic locations – would be released on Thursday.

US media reports suggest the list will include some of the country's busiest hubs, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, Dallas/Fort Worth International, Denver International, Chicago O'Hare International and Los Angeles International.

The cancellations could affect between 3,500 and 4,000 flights each day. US media also reported that international flights would not be affected. Bedford said during Wednesday's briefing, "We're seeing pressure building in a way that we don't think—if we let it continue unchecked—we'll be able to continue to tell the public that we operate the safest airline system in the world."

Duffy emphasized that air travel is still safe, and the decision to cancel flights is being made to maintain safety and efficiency.

Bedford added that if the disruptions continue and put further strain on the system, additional restrictive measures may be necessary.