The ongoing US government shutdown has triggered widespread disruptions in air travel, with over 5,000 flights canceled or delayed on Friday as new mandates forced airlines to reduce operations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented emergency measures, cutting flights by 4% initially, with plans to increase reductions to 10% by next week. These measures aim to alleviate pressure on air traffic controllers and other federal employees who have been working without pay since the shutdown began last month. The staffing crisis has led to fatigue among controllers, raising safety concerns and prompting unions to voice their frustrations. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that flight cuts could escalate to 20% if the shutdown persists. Meanwhile, travelers faced significant inconveniences, with many rebooking flights or seeking alternative transportation. The shutdown has also impacted federal workers, including air traffic controllers, who are struggling to make ends meet. On Capitol Hill, negotiations between Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked, with no clear resolution in sight. President Donald Trump has suggested ending the Senate filibuster to pass a funding bill, but this proposal lacks bipartisan support. The shutdown, now the longest in US history, continues to strain essential services and workers across the nation.
Thousands of US flights cancelled or delayed over government shutdown cuts
