Air Travel Faces Disruption Amid Ongoing Shutdown
The U.S. government shutdown stretched into its 37th day Thursday, as federal officials announced phased cuts of 10% to airline capacity in dozens of major airports due to an intensifying shortage of air traffic controllers. The Federal Aviation Administration plans to roll out the reductions starting Friday, affecting hubs in Atlanta, Dallas, New York, Los Angeles, and other large cities, alongside major cargo airports. While the exact list could still change, airlines have been notified to expect at least a 4% reduction in schedules Friday and 5% on Saturday, reaching 10% by next week, just as the busy Veterans Day travel period arrives.
Senate Negotiations Continue as Democrats Stand Firm
Despite growing pressure, the Senate has not scheduled a vote to reopen the government after a House-passed resolution failed to advance for the 14th time. Bipartisan negotiations continued Wednesday, with some progressives urging Democrats to hold out for key healthcare concessions, while moderates explored possible compromise. Democrats’ confidence was buoyed by sweeping victories in this week’s elections, making them less likely to cede ground, even as Republicans faced new calls from President Trump to scrap the filibuster.
FAA and Airlines Brace for Holiday Travel Crunch
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy cited the need to relieve overworked air traffic controllers, who have missed paychecks since the shutdown began, as the driving force behind the FAA’s move. Airlines, however, are scrambling to adjust, worried about the confusion and the potential for additional disruptions if weather issues hit during the holiday period. Industry sources expressed uncertainty about the FAA’s final list and the specifics of how capacity will be cut at each airport.
Food Benefit Cuts, SNAP Updates for November
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients learned that maximum benefit allotments for November will be reduced by 35%—less than the initially forecasted 50%—after a USDA court filing. Eligible Americans will receive up to 65% of full benefits, offering some relief but leaving many families and grocers facing a tough month. The program’s cutbacks are just one of many ripple effects from the prolonged impasse in Washington.