US Government Shutdown Forces Over 1,200 Flight Cancellations, Disrupting Holiday Travel Plans
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The US government shutdown has taken a toll on the country's air travel, with over 1,200 flights cancelled across the nation on Friday. The disruptions come just weeks before the Thanksgiving holiday, leaving thousands of travellers in the lurch. According to FlightAware, a tracking website, American Airlines has cancelled 220 flights daily, while Delta has cut around 170 flights and Southwest Airlines has axed about 100 flights. The cancellations are part of a phased reduction, starting at 4% and expected to climb to 10% next week if Congress fails to pass a funding measure. The most severely impacted airports are Atlanta, Newark, Denver, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles. Despite the disruptions, 94% of flights still departed on time, but long lines and delays have already been reported at major hubs. The shutdown has left many federal employees furloughed or working without pay, including vital personnel at airports. This has led to delays and cancellations, causing frustration among travellers. "I'm worried that this shutdown will ruin our holiday plans," said Rhonda, a 65-year-old traveller who arrived at LaGuardia airport without a hitch from Portland, Maine. "This is hurting a lot of people.
