US Airlines Ground 1,200 Flights Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown Chaos

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As the US government shutdown enters its 42nd day, American air travelers are bearing the brunt of the crisis. On Tuesday, 1,200 flights were canceled, marking the fifth consecutive day that airlines have canceled over 1,000 flights due to mandatory reductions imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA instructed airlines to cut 4% of daily flights at 40 major airports due to air traffic control staffing issues. However, the latest reductions have now risen to 6%. The FAA's decision to impose flight reductions was a result of staffing shortages, with the agency currently 3,500 air traffic controllers short of its target. This has led to tens of thousands of flight cancellations and delays since the shutdown began on October 1. Over the weekend, 1.2 million passengers faced disruptions due to air traffic controller absences. A glimmer of hope emerged on Monday night when the Senate voted to approve legislation to end the shutdown and fund the government through January 30. The House is set to take up the bill on Wednesday. However, the FAA is exploring options to reduce or eliminate the flight cuts as soon as possible. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has threatened to dock the pay of air traffic controllers who do not return to work and welcomes the resignations of those who are not diligent in showing up for work. The shutdown has forced 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration agents to work without pay. Airlines such as Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines have been severely affected by the flight reductions, with many flights delayed or canceled. The situation is expected to improve once the shutdown is resolved, but for now, air travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest information on flight schedules.