By: Richard L. Smith
Info Credit: NPR
With Thanksgiving travel a couple of weeks away, flyers out of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and the New York metro area are already feeling the impact of the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Air traffic controllers at the FAA are working without pay, and airlines are beginning to scale back flights as staffing shortages grow worse.
According to NPR and FAA officials, the New York–New Jersey airspace, which connects Newark, LaGuardia, and Kennedy airports, is among the hardest hit, with the agency warning of potential up to 10% reductions in air traffic if the shutdown continues.
Delays and cancellations have already been reported at EWR as crews juggle limited personnel.
For travelers in North Jersey and New York City, the effects are being felt in real time:
• Some airlines are trimming schedules to avoid overloading air-traffic systems.
• Flights at peak hours are facing longer departure holds.
• Passengers may need to plan for more time at check-in and security.
Airline industry groups warn that the situation could worsen heading into the busiest holiday travel week of the year.
While most flights remain on schedule, travelers should stay alert to last-minute changes and consider flexible travel plans if possible.