Delta Air Lines will reduce flights at 40 major U.S. airports starting November 7, following a directive from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation. The move is a response to air traffic control staffing shortages linked to the ongoing government shutdown.
Delta stated that it expects to operate most flights as scheduled, including all long-haul international services. The airline emphasized its focus on safety and minimizing customer disruption during this period.
“We are providing additional flexibility to our customers traveling to, from or through the impacted markets during the impacted travel period to change, cancel or refund their flights, including Delta Main Basic fares, without penalty during this travel period. See travel waiver details,” the company said.
Delta also noted it would give customers as much advance notice as possible about any changes and apologized for potential inconvenience. Customers are encouraged to check their flight status for updates.
The flight reductions are intended to maintain safety in the national airspace system while addressing staffing challenges caused by the government shutdown.
