Overview
- The Department of Transportation and FAA began progressive reductions at the 40 busiest U.S. airports on Nov. 7, starting near 4% and scheduled to reach 10% by Nov. 14.
- Friday’s first full day of cuts produced more than 1,000 cancellations and over 4,100 delays, with lengthy queues reported at several major hubs.
- Authorities say reductions could climb toward 20% if the shutdown continues, raising alarms about the Thanksgiving travel period.
- The FAA says international services are largely excluded, concentrating cancellations on domestic routes and trimming flight frequencies.
- Italian unions report at least 1,500 locally hired staff at U.S. bases in Vicenza, Aviano and Livorno missed October pay, warn that about 4,100 workers are at risk, and press Rome to act under SOFA labor protections.