The U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced on Wednesday a 10% reduction in flights at 40 major airports, driven by air traffic control safety concerns as the government shutdown enters its record 36th day.
The measure aims to alleviate strain on understaffed controllers working without pay, with implementation set to begin Friday in phased increments starting at 4%.
The shutdown, the longest in U.S. history, has furloughed 750,000 federal employees and left 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration agents unpaid.
Airlines report tens of thousands of delays since October 1, impacting at least 3.2 million travelers.
Duffy emphasized that the cuts could be reversed if Democrats agree to reopen the government.
The Trump administration has intensified pressure on Democrats over funding disputes, including health care subsidies, while Democrats accuse Republicans of blocking negotiations.
The Federal Aviation Administration, short 3,500 controllers, has seen mandatory overtime and six-day weeks exacerbate shortages.
A confidential safety assessment highlighted performance concerns among controllers.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated at a press conference, "When we see pressures building in these 40 markets, we just can't ignore it."
The agency plans exemptions for international flights and potential further restrictions after Friday if issues persist.
Affected airports span more than two dozen states, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, Chicago O'Hare International, Los Angeles International, John F. Kennedy International in New York, and Dallas/Fort Worth International.
Other sites include Denver International, Miami International, San Francisco International, and Memphis International, which hosts FedEx operations.
Aviation analytics firm Cirium estimates up to 1,800 daily flights and 268,000 seats could be cut.
The FAA will publish the formal order on Thursday, with cuts rising to 5% Saturday, 6% Sunday, and 10% next week.
Major carriers like United Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines are adjusting schedules, focusing reductions on regional and non-hub domestic routes.
United CEO Scott Kirby assured that long-haul international and hub-to-hub flights remain unaffected, offering refunds to any customer opting out during the period.
American Airlines expects minimal disruption for most customers.
Southwest is evaluating impacts and communicating with passengers promptly.
Delta Air Lines and Frontier Airlines echoed refund offers and advised checking flights.
The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA described the shutdown as "cruel attacks on all Americans."
Airlines have urged lawmakers to resolve the impasse, warning of safety risks and potential booking drops.
Shares of United and American fell about 1% in extended trading.
Additional measures include limiting space launches and general aviation restrictions.
Authorities also anticipate disruptions to package deliveries at Memphis and Louisville hubs.