LAX, Ontario, and San Diego Among Airports Facing 10% Flight Capacity Cut Amid FAA Shutdown
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA — Air travel across California is set to face major disruptions as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that multiple airports — including Los Angeles International (LAX), Ontario International, and San Diego International — will see a 10% reduction in flight capacity beginning Friday morning due to operational restrictions tied to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
FAA and DOT Confirm Nationwide Flight Reductions
The announcement, confirmed by FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, comes amid growing concerns about staffing shortages and funding lapses caused by the partial shutdown. Officials say the cuts are a temporary measure to maintain safety and manage limited resources until full operations resume.
According to a report obtained by ABC News, the FAA’s decision could result in thousands of flight cancellations or schedule adjustments nationwide over the coming days. In addition to California’s airports, major hubs in Chicago, Atlanta, New York, and Dallas are also expected to be impacted.
Five California Airports Affected
California will be among the states hardest hit by the flight capacity restrictions. Alongside LAX, Ontario, and San Diego, the FAA’s list reportedly includes San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Sacramento International Airport (SMF).
Officials estimate the state’s air traffic could drop by nearly 1,200 flights per day, affecting both domestic and international travel routes. Airlines have already begun adjusting schedules and notifying passengers about possible delays, cancellations, and rebookings.
Safety Prioritized Amid Staffing Shortages
FAA representatives emphasized that air safety remains the top priority despite the staffing challenges. Many air traffic control centers and safety inspection divisions have been operating with reduced personnel since the shutdown began, prompting the need for flight caps to prevent operational overload.
“While these reductions are regrettable, safety cannot be compromised,” FAA Administrator Bedford said in a press statement. “We’re taking steps to ensure every flight that operates during this period does so under the highest safety standards possible.”
Airlines Brace for Widespread Passenger Disruptions
Airlines serving the affected airports — including major carriers like Delta, American, Southwest, and United — are preparing for massive passenger disruptions as schedules are reshuffled. Many have issued travel waivers allowing customers to change or cancel flights without penalty for the next several days.
Travel experts are warning passengers to check flight status updates frequently, arrive early for departures, and prepare for longer wait times at terminals due to expected crowding.
“This will likely be one of the most significant operational slowdowns we’ve seen since the pandemic,” said aviation analyst Mark Jeffries. “Even a 10% reduction across major airports can ripple through the entire system.”
Potential Economic Impact
Economists are already warning of potential losses in tourism and business travel revenue, especially in California, where air travel supports millions of jobs and contributes billions annually to the state economy.
“The timing is critical,” said one Los Angeles tourism official. “With holiday travel approaching, even minor capacity cuts can create outsized effects on both consumers and the state’s economic recovery.”
No Timeline Yet for Restoration
As of Thursday evening, there is no confirmed timeline for restoring full flight capacity. FAA leaders said the agency will reevaluate conditions daily and work with airlines to prioritize essential routes, emergency flights, and high-demand corridors.
Travelers are encouraged to monitor updates directly from the FAA, airlines, and airport websites for the latest information.
For continuing national travel updates and shutdown coverage, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
