Up to 10% of air traffic could be reduced across 40 major markets, threatening thousands of flights ahead of the Thanksgiving rush.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced Wednesday that it may begin reducing air traffic in 40 high-volume U.S. markets as soon as this weekend if the ongoing government shutdown continues. The move would mark one of the most significant disruptions to air travel in recent years, potentially grounding thousands of flights during the peak Thanksgiving travel season.
According to the Trump administration, approximately 10% of air traffic would be slashed at affected airports — a decision analysts warn could lead to cascading cancellations, staffing shortages, and heavy delays at already strained hubs. The warning comes after what officials described as the “worst weekend yet” for U.S. airports since the shutdown began.
The economic ripple effects are already being felt. The administration is preparing to issue only partial payments under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), heightening pressure on lawmakers to resolve the impasse. The shutdown, now entering its sixth week, has become the longest in U.S. history and continues to expose the fragility of key federal operations.
On Capitol Hill, bipartisan negotiations have shown faint signs of movement, but political divisions remain sharp in the wake of Tuesday’s elections. President Trump attributed GOP losses in several races to the “negative” impact of the shutdown, while Democrats celebrated victories and argued that their focus on healthcare resonated with voters.
The standoff also coincides with the Affordable Care Act’s open enrollment period, where looming premium increases have become a focal point of debate. As millions prepare for holiday travel and healthcare deadlines, the stakes surrounding Washington’s gridlock have rarely been higher.
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