FAA Cuts Air Traffic by 10% as Travelers Face Delays, Cancellations

UPDATE: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has just announced a 10% reduction in air traffic nationwide due to an alarming shortage of air traffic controllers amid the ongoing government shutdown. This significant cut, impacting major hubs like Oakland International Airport and San Francisco International Airport, is already leading to widespread chaos for travelers, with many reporting delays of several hours.

Travelers flying to and from cities like Boston are feeling the immediate effects, with over two dozen flights canceled at San Francisco International Airport just today. According to FlightAware, a staggering 445 flights have been canceled across the country on Friday, marking a steep increase of more than four times the cancellations from Thursday.

“I’m hoping to return back home on my flight, but who knows. The federal government needs to do something,” said traveler Gerald Lenoir. “My wife is home by herself and she’s disabled, so I’d like to get home.” His sense of urgency reflects that of many travelers caught in this turmoil.

Traveler Diana Divecha, en route to Minneapolis, expressed frustration: “They’re playing serious, dangerous games with people’s lives. My husband is flying tonight from Boston back to San Francisco and his flight is delayed right now. The uncertainty is hard to deal with.”

As tensions rise, travelers at Oakland International Airport are lining up, facing delays even before the full impact of the FAA’s announcement takes effect. “Yeah, it just happened,” said Tod Brainard, who initially expected a half-hour delay. “Now I’m going to get home in the middle of the night. I didn’t sign up for a red-eye but thank you, government, for giving me a red-eye.”

The FAA’s decision comes as a response to the critical shortage of air traffic controllers who are currently going unpaid during the shutdown. As a result, hundreds of flight cancellations are anticipated at the country’s 40 busiest airports this weekend, coinciding with the holiday travel rush.

Travelers have been left in limbo, with many airlines offering refunds and free changes for impacted flights. “I look at my ticket today and I’m now flying back into Seattle when I should have been flying into Everett,” noted traveler Richard Marx, highlighting the confusion surrounding flight changes.

Officials at San Francisco International Airport are advising travelers to stay updated on their flight statuses as individual airlines determine which flights will be disrupted. The situation is evolving rapidly, and travelers are urged to check their flight details regularly.

The uncertainty surrounding air travel during this crucial time is palpable, with many passengers feeling the emotional weight of missed connections and disrupted plans. With the holiday season approaching, the potential for increased cancellations adds to the pressing need for a resolution to the air traffic controller crisis.

As this situation develops, travelers are advised to remain vigilant and proactive in managing their travel plans. Expect further updates as the FAA continues to address this urgent issue.