FAA limits private jet flights as government shutdown continues

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has restricted private jet and business flights at 12 major airports to reduce strain on air traffic control towers during the government shutdown.

Private planes are no longer flying out of Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, and Chicago O’Hare, among several others.

The directive took effect on Monday and allows exceptions only for emergencies, medical transport, and law enforcement purposes.

The move aims to alleviate pressure on controllers who face fatigue and unpaid workweeks. Many have called in sick or taken on second jobs, resulting in widespread flight delays and cancellations.

The uber-rich had found a workaround and were increasingly taking private flights amid the shutdown.

Impact on travelers
Airlines canceled over 3,600 flights between Friday and Sunday, with more reductions expected as capacity cuts rose to 10% by Friday. 

Nearly half of Sunday’s flights at O’Hare faced delays, and other major airports reported similar disruptions.

Looking at the dire situation, President Trump said yesterday that air traffic controllers who don’t report to work will have their pay docked.