By Nicole Weatherholtz | Friday, 07 November 2025 01:55 PM EST
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) initiated a 10% reduction in flights on Friday, with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warning that the cuts could escalate to 20% if the government shutdown persists. Duffy emphasized the potential for further reductions during a Breitbart News event in Washington, D.C., stating, “If this continues, and I have more controllers who decide they can’t come to work… we might go to 15% or 20%.” However, he later clarified that these remarks were hypothetical, adding, “There’s no plan for that. I assess the data and how many controllers I have…”
The FAA’s order, impacting 40 airports nationwide, has already led to over 815 flight cancellations. The reductions, starting at 4% and increasing to 10% by Nov. 14, aim to ease pressure on air traffic controllers working without pay for over a month. Many have been working six-day weeks with mandatory overtime, prompting growing exhaustion and financial strain.
Duffy dismissed accusations that the flight cuts were politically motivated, stating, “This has not been political.” He urged the Senate to resolve the funding impasse, criticizing lawmakers for flying home while ordinary Americans face travel disruptions. “There’s people going to funerals… They can’t get home. Why are senators going home?” he asked.
Breitbart reporter Matt Boyle quipped about restricting senators from traveling, to which Duffy responded, “That would be great.” The FAA’s measures remain in effect between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., with adjustments based on airspace safety concerns.
