Authorities have issued a warning that air travel in the United States may significantly decrease due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed concerns that if the funding deadlock between Democrats and Republicans persists, the number of disrupted flights could escalate, especially as Americans prepare for Thanksgiving travel later this month.
During a recent appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Duffy anticipated a further decline in air travel, stating, “The two weeks before Thanksgiving, you’re going to see air travel be reduced to a trickle.” FlightAware data indicated over 1,330 flight cancellations within and to/from the US on Sunday morning, with airports like those in New York City, Chicago, and Atlanta experiencing substantial disruptions.
Duffy emphasized the likelihood of diminished flight options for Americans planning to travel for Thanksgiving if the shutdown continues. The situation has already led to a decrease in flights at airports nationwide since the Trump administration instructed reductions to alleviate pressure on unpaid air traffic controllers.
The 40th day of the record shutdown saw continued flight reductions on Sunday, prompting concerns about a strain on air traffic controllers and potential disruptions. Duffy, speaking on Fox News Sunday, warned of limited flight operations and potential chaos, which could leave many travelers stranded and frustrated.
While Duffy pointed fingers at Democrats for the political deadlock, Senator Adam Schiff criticized Republicans for rejecting what he termed a “reasonable” compromise to end the shutdown. Schiff highlighted ongoing disagreements, particularly regarding healthcare subsidies, as hindrances to resolving the impasse.