US orders 10% reduction in air traffic as shutdown drags on. Here's the list of airports that will cut flights

The United States has ordered airlines to reduce 10% flights at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports starting Friday, citing pressure on air traffic control operations amid the ongoing government shutdown. The move, announced by the Federal Aviation Administration ( FAA), aims to ensure continued safety across the national airspace system while managing limited staffing resources.

According to the FAA, the flight reductions will help maintain operational safety as thousands of federal employees, including air traffic controllers and aviation safety staff, continue working without pay or face furloughs. “This measure is necessary to prevent excessive strain on the system and maintain safe operations,” an FAA spokesperson said in a statement.

Major airports impacted

The order affects major airports across the country, including

Travelers advised to check flight status
The FAA said travellers should confirm their flight status directly with airlines as schedules are being adjusted to accommodate the reduced capacity. Airlines are expected to cancel or consolidate selected flights to meet the 10% reduction target, focusing on maintaining essential connections and high-demand routes.

While no timeline has been given for restoring full operations, aviation analysts say the impact could deepen if the government shutdown continues. Delays and cancellations are expected to rise, particularly at airports already operating near capacity.

The cuts come as part of a broader set of disruptions caused by the federal shutdown, which has halted several transportation and regulatory functions nationwide.