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Transit Chief Sean Duffy issued a warning that a 10% reduction in air travel capacity will begin at forty major US airports starting Friday morning, if the ongoing government shutdown continue.

“This is unusual, just as the funding gap is unusual, and the reality that our air traffic staff are working unpaid for a 30-day period is exceptional,” stated FAA chief Bryan Bedford.

During the shutdown, which is now the most extended in US records, air traffic personnel have been required to continue working without pay, prompting some to take sick leave or seek secondary employment.

Affected Locations and Per-Day Travel Disruptions

The identities of the impacted airports—all high-traffic locations—will be released on Thursday, authorities said.

The flight reductions may impact between 3,500 and 4,000 flights per day.

Security Concerns and Operational Pressures

“There are strains build in a way that we don't feel—if we allow it to go unchecked—will enable us to keep assuring the public that we operate the most secure airline system in the world,” Bedford commented.

The Transportation Secretary emphasized that air travel is still safe, and the choice to reduce air services was taken to uphold both safety and efficiency.

Should the funding lapse continue and add additional strain to the aviation network, additional limitations may be required, Bedford noted.

Background on the Shutdown

After federal money ran out on 1 October, most federal workers were sent home and told they would be compensated when the funding resumed. Employees considered critical, like air traffic staff, though, had to keep doing their jobs without pay.

Almost immediately after the funding halt started, airports started feeling the impact. Certain had to halt aircraft for hours after air traffic controllers took sick leave, while others depended on personnel from different airports.

Previous Warnings and Staff Gaps

Duffy had alerted recently that flight cancellations may be coming, as 50% of the nation's thirty major airports experience staff shortages.

He previously stated that there is a risk associated with aviation staff taking on side work during the funding lapse, and had warned to fire controllers who do not come to work.

“They have to choose, do I report for duty and work unpaid and not put food on the table? Or do I work for Uber or DoorDash or work in hospitality?” the Secretary said on ABC on Sunday.