FAA to Slash Thousands of Flights Across the U.S. on Friday-What Travelers Need to Know

"Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in a post on X the cuts are "designed to alleviate pressure" on air traffic controllers who are considered essential employees and required to continue working during the shutdown, but are not currently receiving a paycheck. "Our sole role is to make sure that we keep this airspace as safe as possible," Duffy said. "This is data-based ... this is about, 'Where is the pressure and how do we alleviate the pressure?'""

"The company also said it will refund any passenger who wants to cancel their flight while routes are reduced, even if their specific flight isn't impacted. "The FAA's goal is to relieve pressure on the aviation system so that we can all continue to operate safely. That is the FAA's highest priority, and ours as well," United's CEO Scott Kirby said in the letter. "No matter what environment we're operating in, we will not compromise on safety.""

The Federal Aviation Administration ordered a 10 percent reduction in flight capacity at 40 airports this week as the government shutdown continues into its fifth week. The cuts are intended to relieve pressure on air traffic controllers who remain on duty without pay. The reductions begin Friday and are expected to affect most major airports, including New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Major carriers are adjusting schedules: United will target regional and domestic mainline cuts while preserving international and hub routes and offering refunds to travelers who cancel. Officials and airlines stress safety as the top priority.

Read at Travel + Leisure