Delays impacted airports in twelve major cities, including metropolises such as New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Atlanta. In Atlanta, known as one of the busiest airports in the country, the average delay time reached 282 minutes.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) instructed airlines to reduce the number of flights due to issues with air traffic safety:
- by 4% starting November 7;
- up to 6% by November 11;
- up to 10% by November 14.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy noted that if personnel shortages continue, the department may require a 20% reduction in air travel volume.
Negotiations are underway to resolve the shutdown situation; however, as of now, no agreement has been reached between Democrats and Republicans. The Senate plans to discuss this issue on November 9.
The economic losses for the U.S. due to the halt in government operations are estimated at $2 billion per week.
