(MENAFN) Sunday marked the most severe travel disruption since the US government shutdown began, with reports indicating over 2,800 flights canceled and more than 10,000 delayed.

Airports in New York, Chicago, and Atlanta experienced the brunt of the disruption, with Atlanta’s primary airport alone canceling upwards of 200 flights, according to tracking data.

Airlines representing major US carriers stated that since early October, more than 4 million passengers have been affected by shutdown-related disruptions, as reported by sources.

Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy warned that the situation at US airports “will only get worse” and could extend into the holiday travel season. “Thousands more flights will likely be canceled as air traffic controllers work without pay, and some begin seeking other jobs to cover their expenses,” he added.

He also cautioned that air travel could slow to “a trickle” in the two weeks leading up to Thanksgiving and highlighted that a “substantial” number of Americans may not reach home for the holiday.

The disruption follows an emergency order from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) limiting flight volumes to reduce strain on overworked controllers. Duffy noted that the FAA is currently short 1,000-2,000 controllers, with 15-20 retiring each day. He warned that these staffing gaps will continue to affect flight operations even after the shutdown ends, as pilots have reported controllers appearing stressed and less responsive.

By Tuesday, flights at many airports are projected to be cut by approximately 6%, according to reports.
Duffy rejected claims from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer that the FAA’s flight reductions are "transparently political," instead blaming Democrats and urging public pressure on them. Schumer responded on social media platform X, accusing Republicans of refusing negotiations, leaving controllers unpaid, grounding flights, and punishing travelers. “Instead of governing, Republicans are playing games with people’s livelihoods,” he wrote.

Congress remains at an impasse, with Senate Republicans turning down a Democratic proposal to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies. Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated that the chamber would remain in session until an agreement is reached.

Meanwhile, amid a legal dispute over food aid during the shutdown, the administration directed states to pause full SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, impacting low-income Americans.

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