Travel nightmare worsens as FAA cuts prompt thousands of flight disruptions

Travel Disruptions - Government shutdown is causing massive travel disruptions, especially impacting air travel [1] - Over 2,000 flights were canceled, and more than 8,000 flights were delayed [1][2] - Airlines are directed to cut 6% of flights at 40 major airports by Tuesday and 10% by Friday [2] - Air traffic control staffing shortages are causing significant delays, with Newark experiencing delays averaging more than 2 hours [3] Staffing Shortages Impact - Staffing shortages contributed to 71% of delays on Saturday [4] - Air traffic controller retirements have accelerated during the shutdown, potentially causing long-term effects [7] Thanksgiving Travel Impact - Thanksgiving travel plans are being disrupted, with families shuffling plans and some canceling flights [4][5] - Airlines have already made cancellations mandated by the FAA through Tuesday, rebooking or refunding passengers [6]