FAA increases flight reductions amid government shutdown, raising Thanksgiving travel concerns

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Federal Aviation Administration expanded nationwide flight reductions Tuesday as the ongoing government shutdown continues to strain air travel operations.

Flight cuts have increased from 4% to 6%, affecting airports across the country. The FAA is currently limiting capacity at 40 major airports, largely due to a growing number of air traffic controllers not reporting to work. Although air traffic controllers are classified as essential employees and are required to work without pay during the shutdown, staffing shortages are beginning to impact flight schedules.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy addressed concerns about whether air travel would return to normal in time for the busy Thanksgiving holiday, assuming the government reopens this week.

"It depends on are we going to have air traffic controllers coming to work," Duffy said. "But with regard to controlling the
airspace, we will be up and running."

President Trump weighed in on social media, writing, "For those that did nothing but complain, and take time off, even though everyone knew they would be paid in full shortly into the future, I am not happy with you."

With uncertainty lingering, AAA is urging travelers to consider backup plans for Thanksgiving.

"Looking into trains, buses, rental cars, rideshare, those kinds of things," said Jana Tidwell of AAA. "But if you are planning
Thanksgiving travel by air, staying informed in the coming days is going to be crucial."

According to FlightAware, as of Tuesday evening, Philadelphia International Airport reported 50 flight delays and 23 cancellations. Nationwide, more than 13,000 flights have been delayed and nearly 1,600 canceled.

Despite the disruptions, some travelers at Philadelphia International said their experiences had been relatively smooth.

"We did get here a little early, but so far everything's on time and everything is flowing as expected," said Tom Reece of Washington Township, N.J.

"We've been following our flight. It's not been canceled and everything seems to be on time," said Leonard Friedland of Queen Village. "Pretty sure the TSA line is OK, but we'll go find out."

While there is optimism that the shutdown may soon end, travelers are being advised to remain flexible and stay updated as the holiday approaches.