Overview
- Airlines removed nearly 700 Friday flights by Thursday night, according to FlightAware, as carriers began complying with the initial 4% reduction.
- American canceled about 220 flights per day through Monday, Delta cut roughly 170 on Friday, United plans under 200 daily cancellations Friday to Sunday, and Southwest dropped about 120 on Friday.
- Long-haul international and hub-to-hub services are largely maintained while domestic and regional frequencies face most of the cuts during daytime hours.
- The FAA cites unpaid controller staffing strain and says reductions will escalate to 10% by Nov. 14 if conditions do not improve, with additional steps possible.
- Industry estimates point to up to 1,800 daily cancellations and 268,000 seats cut at peak, cargo hubs in Memphis and Louisville could see ripple effects, and major airlines are offering flexible rebooking and refunds while not covering hotels or meals.