If the government remains closed, the US will start reducing traffic at 40 airports from Friday!
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced at a press conference on Wednesday that if there is no agreement between the two parties to end the government shutdown, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) could reduce 10% of flights at 40 major airports as early as Friday.
"As we begin to implement these service cuts, they will be limited to these 40 high-traffic markets, and we ask airlines to work with us to reduce their schedules. We have to make the decision to ensure the safety of the airspace," he said.
The service reductions at these airports are due to delays caused by a shortage of air traffic controllers during the shutdown. Controllers must work during the closure but without pay, Duffy said. Some have called in sick to take other jobs to earn money or to protest not receiving their wages.
"We have asked air traffic controllers to come to work, but I won't be naive to think they should fulfill their daily duties. Because of this, we have seen pressure on personnel across the entire airspace, and travelers will see more delays and more cancellations."
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1847989091989516/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.