- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will reduce flight capacity by 10% at 40 major airports nationwide.
- This decision, announced by FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, could result in thousands of flight cancellations daily.
- The restrictions are set to begin Friday morning, initially at 4% and gradually increasing to 10%.
- The capacity reductions are a proactive measure to ensure safety, addressing anticipated staffing pressures during a government shutdown.
- Flights impacted by these reductions are scheduled between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., while international flights are exempt.
- FAA Administrator Bedford described this move as unprecedented in his 35-year career.
- A list of affected airports, obtained by ABC News, includes major hubs such as Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson, Boston Logan, all three New York City-area airports, and Chicago O’Hare.
- United Airlines stated that its long-haul international and hub-to-hub flights will not be affected by the cuts.
- United Airlines will provide refunds for any flight, including basic economy or non-refundable tickets, to customers seeking them.
- The FAA’s decision aims to “reduce the risk profile in the national airspace” and prevent safety issues from escalating.
- The agency will consider various factors, such as airlines operating less-than-daily service, when finalizing the cuts to flight schedules.
- Airlines for America, a trade association, is working with the federal government to understand the mandate and mitigate impacts on passengers and shippers.
- President Donald Trump has been made aware of the FAA’s new restrictions.
- A final list of airports and the official FAA order with complete details are expected to be issued on Thursday.
- The decision is based on data reviewed by the Department of Transportation, indicating a need for action before safety problems manifest.