Overview
- Reductions will be phased, beginning near 4% on Friday and rising to 10% next week, according to communications with airlines reported by multiple outlets.
- The move is expected to affect roughly 3,500 to 4,000 daily flights, with carriers preparing schedule changes and refunds for impacted travelers.
- The FAA plans to publish the definitive list of 40 high-volume markets on Thursday before the cuts take effect.
- Airlines say reductions will focus on regional and non‑hub domestic routes, while long‑haul international and hub‑to‑hub flying will largely continue.
- Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford framed the action as a proactive safety measure as staffing shortages worsen, with further steps possible if pressures continue.