U.S. Transport Chief Warns Flights Could Shrink to 'Very Few' if Shutdown Drags On

The warning follows DOT-ordered schedule cuts at 40 major airports to match unpaid air traffic controller staffing limits.

Overview

In a Nov. 9 Fox News interview, Transportation Secretary Duffy said available flights would drop to 'very few' if the funding lapse continues.
The partial shutdown that began Oct. 1 has halted pay for air traffic controllers, straining staffing and safety margins.
DOT began mandated flight reductions on Nov. 7 at 40 major airports, initially trimming about 4% of schedules.
Reports cite growing delays and cancellations nationwide as capacity is capped to preserve safety.
Officials caution that disruptions are likely to intensify through the Thanksgiving travel period unless controller pay resumes.