The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced plans on Friday to ease some restrictions on commercial flights imposed during the recent government shutdown, downgrading the mandatory flight cut from 6% to 3% at 40 major US airports.
The FAA’s decision comes after the shutdown ended on November 12, though Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy reiterated that full operational stability would not be restored until staffing at air traffic control facilities improves and safety metrics show signs of recovery.
This unprecedented flight restriction was implemented on November 7, amid increasing concerns of air traffic safety due to a rise in controller absences, as many were struggling financially after going unpaid for over a month. Duffy noted that some controllers resorted to taking side jobs to make ends meet during the shutdown.
The flight cut mandates escalated from an initial 4% to 6%, with the FAA initially considering a more significant 10% reduction. However, promising news about Congress nearing a deal to end the impasse meant that the situation was already improving, leading to the reduced restrictions.
The Aviation industry organization, Airlines for America, has warned of potential residual effects from the flight restrictions over the coming days, highlighting that many planes had to be rerouted and may not be where they are usually stationed.
As the industry strives to recover in time for the busy Thanksgiving travel period, experts remain cautious, with predictions of ongoing operational issues affecting air travel.
Moreover, the nationwide shortage of air traffic controllers has been exacerbated by the shutdown, with an alarming rate of 15 to 20 controllers retiring daily. Duffy expressed concern over the implications for air traffic safety, as younger controllers also leave the profession.
