US Government Shutdown Grounds Thousands of Flights Nationwide

Over 5,000 US flights were delayed or cancelled on Friday after new federal rules forced airlines to reduce air traffic during the ongoing government shutdown.

According to the BBC, the FAA ordered a 4% cut in flights at 40 major airports, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington DC, as unpaid air traffic controllers report fatigue and financial strain.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that the cuts could rise to 20% if the shutdown continues. Travellers faced long lines and cancellations, while unions accused lawmakers of using workers as “political pawns.”

Talks in Congress to end the 38-day shutdown remain deadlocked, with both parties refusing to compromise.