What Canadian Airlines Are Telling Travellers Amid U.S. Flight Disruptions
Even if you are not flying directly to the United States, your domestic Canadian flight may still be affected. Many air routes across Canada pass through U.S. airspace, which is now facing major disruptions.
FAA Reduces Air Traffic
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration announced a 10 percent reduction in air traffic at 40 high-volume airports beginning Friday. As of Friday morning, more than 800 U.S.-linked flights had been cancelled, as reported by the flight tracker FlightAware.
Impact of Government Shutdown
The U.S. government has been shut down since October 1, marking the longest closure in the country's history. Air traffic controllers have been working without pay for nearly six weeks, resulting in significant staffing shortages and an increase in flight delays.
FAA Response and Safety Concerns
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said he and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy did not want to wait until the situation reached a crisis point.
Bedford cited staffing pressure and reports of fatigue among controllers as reasons behind the decision to reduce air traffic.
Outlook for Canadian Travellers
Flights within Canada that transit through U.S. airspace may experience delays or cancellations. Travellers are encouraged to monitor flight updates regularly and plan for possible disruptions in schedules.
Author’s Summary: More than 800 U.S.-linked flights are canceled due to staffing shortages and FAA’s air traffic reduction, potentially delaying Canadian routes crossing U.S. airspace.