WASHINGTON — Flight disruptions continue to ripple across U.S. airports more than 40 days into the government shutdown, with airlines canceling over a thousand flights just this week. As authorities scramble to manage the situation, the impact is expected to linger well beyond any potential resolution in Congress.

Amid staffing shortages caused by the ongoing impasse, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandated airlines to scale back operations at 40 key airports, reducing flights by as much as 10% in the coming days. Air traffic controllers, many of whom are working without pay, have reported difficulty keeping up with the demand, leading to significant delays and cancellations.

On Tuesday, more than 1,200 flights were canceled, prompting travel chaos for many passengers. The FAA’s concerns revolve around safety, as fewer controllers are available on the job. Many have taken on additional work to compensate for lost income, while others have called in sick, exacerbating the staffing crisis.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy indicated in a press briefing that while staffing is beginning to stabilize at certain facilities, restrictions on air traffic will remain in place until the situation normalizes. “We are waiting for the data to ensure safety before relaxing travel restrictions,” he stated at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. The long process of restoring normal operations could still take days, leading to lingering frustration among travelers and airline staff alike.

Former FAA administrator Randy Babbitt explained that the resumption of regular flight schedules would depend on airlines sorting out logistical problems, including repositioning aircraft and staff. “It’s going to take a bit to unwind,” he noted, reflecting the complicated road ahead.

The aviation trade group Airlines for America has echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that once the shutdown ends, airlines won’t immediately return to full capacity. “Residual effects will be felt for days,” the group warned, highlighting the challenges of recalibrating after significant operational shifts.

Compounding these challenges is the political backdrop of the government shutdown itself. Critics of the administration argue that the flight reductions may be a strategic move to pressure lawmakers into resolving the impasse. Duffy refuted these claims, stressing that the FAA’s actions are necessary for maintaining safety in an increasingly precarious situation.

He further cautioned against the potential for even more severe disruptions if Congress fails to act. “You may find airlines that stop flying altogether,” Duffy said. The stakes are high for passengers and the aviation industry, as the unresolved shutdown continues to affect air travel throughout the nation.