The FAA's air traffic reductions are taking effect. Here's what to know

"Airlines have begun canceling hundreds of flights to comply with an order from the Federal Aviation Administration, with the goal of gradually reducing air traffic at dozens of the nation's busiest airports by 10%. The agency says the move is necessary to keep the airspace safe as it deals with persistent staffing shortages of air traffic controllers, who are required to work without pay during the government shutdown."

"The FAA's plan requires airlines to phase in these cuts gradually, starting with 4% of flights through the weekend and gradually building up to 10% by next Friday. Airlines have some discretion to decide how they're going to hit those targets, so it's likely they will seek to protect their most popular and profitable routes while cutting back on regional flights."

The FAA ordered phased reductions in air traffic at 40 major U.S. airports, aiming to cut operations gradually up to 10%. The list includes hubs in Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Dallas, Los Angeles and Newark. Airlines have begun canceling hundreds of domestic flights and are required to phase cuts, starting at 4% this weekend and reaching 10% by next Friday. Airlines retain discretion and will likely protect high-demand routes while trimming regional and smaller-market service. United has published canceled flights affecting markets such as Moline, Shreveport, Grand Junction and Fresno. The order is limited to domestic flights and also imposes temporary limits on commercial space launches. The reductions respond to persistent air traffic controller staffing shortages tied to the government shutdown and aim to reduce pressure on controllers.

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