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Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has cautioned that a ten percent decrease in flight availability will begin at 40 major US airports starting this Friday, if the current government shutdown not end.

“This is unusual, just as the shutdown is atypical, just as the fact that our controllers haven't been paid for a 30-day period is exceptional,” remarked FAA chief Bryan Bedford.

Amid the funding impasse, which is now the most extended in US records, air traffic personnel have been required to remain on duty uncompensated, prompting some to call out sick or seek secondary employment.

Impacted Airports and Daily Travel Disruptions

The names of the impacted airports—each high-traffic locations—will be released on the coming Thursday, officials confirmed.

These cancellations could affect between 3,500 and 4,000 air travel services per day.

Security Issues and Operational Strains

“We are seeing pressures accumulate in a manner that we believe—if we allow it to go unchecked—will allow us to continue telling the travelers that we operate the most secure airline system in the world,” Bedford stated.

Duffy clarified that air travel is still safe, and the choice to reduce air services was taken to maintain both safety and efficiency.

If the funding lapse persist and add additional pressure to the aviation network, additional limitations could become necessary, Bedford added.

Context on the Funding Gap

Once government funds ran out on 1 October, most federal workers were furloughed and told they would be compensated when the government reopened. Those considered essential, like air traffic staff, however, had to continue their duties unpaid.

Shortly after the funding halt began, travel hubs began experiencing the impact. Certain were forced to ground aircraft for hours after staff called out sick, while others relied on controllers from other airports.

Previous Alerts and Personnel Gaps

Duffy had warned earlier this week that travel disruptions were likely, as half of the country's thirty major airports experience personnel deficits.

He previously mentioned that there is a risk associated with air traffic controllers pursuing additional jobs amid the funding lapse, and had warned to fire controllers who do not come to work.

“Controllers have to make a decision, should I go to work and work unpaid and struggle to provide? Or else should I work for Uber or DoorDash or work in hospitality?” the Secretary said on ABC on Sunday.