According to a BBC report, over 5,000 flights were canceled or delayed across the United States on Friday, coinciding with the implementation of new regulations requiring airlines to reduce air traffic during the government shutdown.

The regulations took effect at 40 of the largest airports in the country to help ease the burden on air traffic controllers and other federal employees who are working without pay amid an unprecedented funding impasse.

Since the shutdown began last month, essential workers have reported sickness or sought additional jobs to meet their financial needs.

FAA Issues Emergency Flight Orders

To address the staffing shortage, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an emergency order requiring a 4% reduction in flights, which is expected to rise to 10% by the end of next week.

This directive includes major travel hubs in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington D.C., while air traffic controllers face fatigue due to the staffing shortage, ensuring the safety of American airspace.

Impact on Air Traffic Controllers

Air traffic controllers are considered essential workers and must continue to perform their duties without pay during the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. The ongoing lack of compensation has led many controllers to experience stress-related illnesses, with some seeking additional jobs to support their families, according to labor unions.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that the flight reduction order has not yet impacted international travel due to existing agreements that the U.S. must adhere to.

However, airport chaos could escalate. Duffy warned in an interview with Fox News that flight reductions could reach 20% if the shutdown continues and more air traffic controllers are absent.

Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, criticized the situation, claiming that controllers are being used as political pawns. He emphasized the need for measures that enhance safety for the flying public.