WARWICK, R.I. — The ongoing U.S. federal government shutdown has begun to take a noticeable toll on air travel. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced plans to cut air traffic by 10% at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports as early as this coming Friday, citing staffing shortages among air traffic controllers working without pay.
Some of the major airports affected already include Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in Georgia, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in California, New York‑John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York, and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) in Massachusetts. Airlines and aviation officials are urging travelers to check with their carriers for the latest on potential cancellations, delays, or schedule changes.
Where things stand in Rhode Island
Travel currently appears stable at Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD). While the airport is not on the FAA’s preliminary list of 40 airports expected to experience reduced air service, this could change.
The airport’s operations remain normal and uninterrupted despite the shutdown and its broader implications.
A recent review found that only three delays were listed at the airport on Thursday morning, with several flights even arriving early.
Officials at the airport continue to monitor the situation closely, aware that circumstances could change.
“We are working with every airline that services PVD to understand local impacts. Each airline will have to make independent decisions on how it will operate. Every airport in the country will likely be impacted by this situation in some manner.” — Rhode Island T.F. Green spokesperson, Bill Fischer.
What this means for travelers
For now, flying to or from T.F. Green seems to be relatively unaffected by the shutdown compared with airports in more heavily impacted markets. But travelers should keep a few things in mind:
The FAA has listed 40 airports where flight reductions will occur, and there remains the potential for future adjustments or disruptions at other facilities.
Controllers and TSA agents at all U.S. airports are working without pay during the shutdown, which raises risks of fatigue, staffing strain, and potential delays if the shutdown continues.
As the shutdown runs longer, secondary effects are taking place: less daily capacity, longer wait times, and/or rerouted flights. Airports like T.F. Green could be quieter now, but that is no guarantee of immunity going forward.
What to do if you’re planning to fly
Check with your airline before setting out for the airport, especially if your flight is through a major hub or one of the busier airports already flagged for cuts.
Monitor your flight status using airline apps or tracking tools. Even if T.F. Green is operating normally, connecting flights or delays at other airports could still affect your travel plans.
Arrive at the airport a little earlier than usual to allow extra time for any unexpected changes.
Airports on the FAA’s list for cuts and reductions amid government shutdown:
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