Travelers at Detroit Metropolitan Airport should expect flight disruptions starting on Friday, as the Federal Aviation Administration and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a 10% reduction in flights amid the ongoing government shutdown. The cuts, beginning at 4% and rising to 10%, will primarily affect domestic departures as unpaid air traffic controllers continue to manage operations since the shutdown began on October 1, as per FOX 2 Detroit.
Detroit is among 40 airports nationwide impacted by the reductions, which aim to maintain safety while easing pressure on air traffic systems. The Wayne County Airport Authority has not yet received official details on how the cuts will affect Detroit Metro’s 800 daily flights, while the U.S. Travel Association estimates the shutdown has already caused more than $4 billion in economic losses, as reported by FOX 2 Detroit and WXYZ.
Detroit Metro Airport reported 33 flight cancellations on Friday morning as disruptions from the government shutdown continued. The Airport Authority said, “We encourage travelers to check their flight status with their airline before heading to DTW. We appreciate our customers' patience as the Airport Authority, airlines and federal partners adapt to changing conditions,” as mentioned by CBS News Detroit. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said additional restrictions may follow if the shutdown continues.
