FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford has raised concerns about significant flight delays as many air traffic controllers are absent due to the ongoing government shutdown. With Thanksgiving approaching, these delays could become even more pronounced.
United Airlines has announced a refund policy for customers whose flights are affected during the shutdown. CEO Scott Kirby informed employees that customers can receive a refund on any tickets booked for travel during this period, regardless of whether their flight is directly impacted. This includes non-refundable and basic economy tickets.
Kirby explained that United’s international flights and major hub-to-hub services will not be disrupted by the FAA’s recent schedule cuts, which affect 40 domestic airports starting Friday. The airline plans to focus reductions on regional flights that do not connect their hubs.
Despite the adjustments, United and its partners will still maintain about 4,000 flights per day, ensuring that many travelers can reach their destinations.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that the staffing shortages at the FAA have raised safety concerns, prompting these reductions. He also indicated that the cuts might be reversed if there is cooperation from Democrats to end the shutdown.
This government shutdown marks a record duration, forcing many air traffic controllers and TSA agents to work without pay, impacting the travel plans of countless Americans during one of the busiest travel times of the year.
