DENVER (KDVR) — Hundreds of flights were canceled across the United States on Saturday as the Federal Aviation Administration continued its requirements to reduce air traffic.
Reduced air traffic control operations are affecting 40 major markets across the country, including Denver International Airport. The FAA previously said the reduction in air traffic control was necessary to provide some relief to air traffic controllers, who have been working without pay since the government shutdown began on Oct. 1.
As reduced air traffic control disrupts air travel, some travelers at DIA told FOX31 they are feeling anxious heading to the airport.
“It was just the unknown,” said traveler Cathy Shaw, who traveled to Denver from Nebraska to visit her mother. “I was worried about getting to the airport and then having to cancel the entire flight after I got there.”
Shaw said her flight was not canceled but was delayed after passengers from a canceled flight to Houston were rebooked on her plane.
“They were turning people on this,” Shaw said. “So we had to wait for the other luggage to be moved.”
Security lines moved quickly Saturday morning, but travelers who spoke to FOX31 were planning for any potential disruption.
“We’ve been monitoring our flight closely, but so far so good,” said Brittany Pendley, who was traveling to Washington, D.C.
More than 70 flights were canceled on Friday at Doha International Airport, and this number is expected to increase in the coming days.
The Federal Aviation Administration began Friday with a 4% reduction. If the government shutdown continues, this reduction will increase every few days until it reaches 10% on November 14.
“If there are some closures, there are some closures,” traveler Candy Bandara said. “I want people to be safe. I want air traffic controllers not to be so stressed out.”
US Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy said on Friday that if the closure continues for a longer period, 20% of flights may need to be reduced.
Discounted flights have some travelers, like Shaw, rethinking their vacation plans.
“I mentioned to my mom, ‘Why don’t you come a week early and leave a whole week later, so you don’t have to mess with it,’” Shaw said.
Experts recommend that travelers stay informed via their airlines about any cancellations or delays and allow extra time to pass through security during the shutdown, as TSA officers also remain unpaid.
If your flight is cancelled, the FAA said airlines will offer you a full refund or rebook you on another flight.