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As the record-breaking federal government shutdown nears day 38, US airspace will become a little less busy. This doesn't apply for US air travel hubs.

Protective Actions Enacted

The federal Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has said air travel is being curtailed to ensure air traffic control security during the federal government funding lapse, currently the lengthiest in history and with little indication of a solution between GOP lawmakers and Democrats to end the federal budget impasse.

Airline regulators pinpointed “congested corridors” where the FAA says air traffic requires reduction by 4% by 6am ET on Friday, a step requiring airlines to scrub numerous flights and create a chain reaction of scheduling complications and delays at key American travel hubs.

Government Commentary

Trump’s transportation chief, Sean Duffy, wrote on X Thursday that the decision was “not about politics” but rather “concerned with reviewing the data and mitigating accumulating danger in the system as air traffic professionals continue working without pay”.

“Flying is safe today, tomorrow, and the day after because of the preventive measures we are taking,” Duffy remarked.

Airline Cutbacks

Experts predict hundreds or even thousands of flights might be called off. The cuts might account for up to 1,800 flights and upwards of 268,000 seats combined, based on an projection by the aviation analytics firm Cirium.

Targeted Terminals

The targeted air hubs covering over 25 states include the busiest ones across the US – such as Georgia's capital, North Carolina's city, DEN, Texas metroplex, MCO, California gateway, Florida hotspot and San Francisco. Among key urban centers – such as NYC, Texas city and Chicago – several air terminals will be impacted.

Each of the three air terminals serving the Washington DC area – IAD, BWI Airport and Reagan National – will be involved, likely creating schedule changes for elected representatives as well as other travelers.

Related Updates

• Below is the compilation of American air terminals cutting flights on Friday as a result of federal government funding lapse.
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