1,500 Flights Canceled in US for Second Day Due to Government Shutdown

American airlines canceled 1,460 flights on Saturday, marking the second day of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) decision to cut air traffic due to the ongoing government shutdown, according to the Associated Press.

Impact of the Shutdown on Air Travel

• Scope of Disruption: Although the slowdown at many of the country's busiest airports has not yet caused widespread chaos, it has amplified the impact of what is now the nation's longest federal shutdown.

• Delays in 12 Cities: The FAA reported significant air traffic controller staffing issues, affecting 37 airport towers and other centers, leading to flight delays in at least 12 major US cities, including Atlanta, Newark, Chicago, New York, and San Francisco.

• Hardest Hit: Charlotte Airport in North Carolina was the hardest hit on Saturday, a typically slow travel day, with 120 inbound and outbound flights canceled by midday.

• Escalating Concern: Analysts warn that disruptions will intensify and extend beyond air travel if cancellations persist and approach the Thanksgiving holiday, threatening shipping and the timely arrival of holiday goods in stores.