U.S. government shutdown changes airport operations, reduces flight numbers by ten percent

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a ten percent reduction in flights at 40 major US airports due to safety concerns in the wake of a record 36-day government "shutdown".

Airlines such as United and American Airlines have prepared flexible policies for customers and have stressed that core operations will be maintained. The Aviation Administration warns that even more stringent measures may be implemented as the government "shutdown" continues.

The Democratic opposition claims that Republicans are using aviation as a weapon in the budget dispute, while the Trump administration is increasing pressure on Democrats refusing to compromise on healthcare funding. The airmen warn of an unbearable burden and accuse political leaders of gambling with public safety.

Meanwhile, airline stocks are plummeting and passengers face uncertainty. The government has not yet disclosed the specific airports affected by the measure, but major US hubs such as New York, Los Angeles and Chicago are expected to be affected.

The longest government shutdown in US history has forced 13 thousand air traffic controllers and 50 thousand Transportation Security Administration agents to work without pay. This has already affected at least 3.2 million passengers.

(reuters, max)