The Department of Transportation has announced a “10% reduction in capacity at 40 major airports” beginning Friday morning, according to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. The measure will affect approximately 3,500 to 4,000 flights daily, as the agency aims to ease pressure on air traffic controllers.

“This data-based decision is designed to alleviate pressure on our air traffic controllers required to keep the skies safe,” the USDOT Rapid Response X account stated. Duffy emphasized that safety remains his top priority, adding that the FAA may implement further measures if necessary. Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Bryan Bedford noted that the reduction, unprecedented in his career, could lead to thousands of cancellations and widespread travel disruptions.

The government shutdown, now the longest in U.S. history at 36 days, has exacerbated staffing shortages, leaving air traffic controllers working without pay. Controllers described a “tipping point” as fatigue and financial strain force many to take unpaid leave. One controller said, “I think you’re also seeing people who are just calling in sick because they’re fed up and they’re like, ‘well, I’m going to spend the holiday weekend with my kids for once.’”

Duffy warned that without resolution, the FAA may face “mass chaos,” including flight delays, cancellations, and airspace closures. Controllers already grapple with low morale due to years of staffing shortages, mandatory overtime, and stagnant wages, which have worsened during the shutdown.

The Transportation Department has not yet released the list of affected airports but plans to brief airlines soon. Duffy acknowledged that the 10% reduction is temporary, though no end date has been set.