The travel rush is already picking up at Miami International Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced phased-in flight capacity reductions at major U.S. airports, including Miami International and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International, citing staffing shortages tied to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Air traffic controllers and TSA agents are still expected to work without pay, but many are calling out after more than a month.
According to FlightAware, a website that tracks air travel in real time, more than 7,000 flights were delayed and over 2,000 canceled nationwide on Nov. 9.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said in a statement that the FAA’s decision “could have significant repercussions for Miami-Dade’s economy, connectivity, and workforce.” She added that the county “will remain open for business, open for travel, and open for opportunity.”
“I don’t know when it will end,” said Kristie Stone, a passenger waiting to board. “But no, I’m not going to change my travel arrangements. I might have to rearrange some things — but that depends on the shutdown.”
With Thanksgiving travel just days away, passengers are being urged to check their flight status, use airline apps for updates and prepare for longer lines at South Florida airports.
