Air passengers in the United States are expected to face more cancellations and delays this week even if the government shutdown ends, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The agency is extending flight cuts at 40 of the country’s main airports, amid a shortage of unpaid air traffic controllers for more than a month.
The regulatory body’s plan is to increase the reduction to 6% this Tuesday; 11.% on Thursday, 13; and, reaching 10% next Friday, the 14th. On Monday, the 10th, airlines canceled more than 2,300 flights, and another thousand scheduled for today were already suspended.
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US President Donald Trump used social media to pressure controllers to “go back to work now”, promising a $10,000 bonus to those who remained on duty and suggesting cutting pay for those who were absent.
The statements were criticized by Democratic parliamentarians, who stated that professionals deserve support, not threats. The category union accused the government of using controllers as “political pawns” in the budget dispute.
Although the Senate approved a proposal to reopen the government, the measure still needs to be voted on by the Chamber. Transport Secretary Sean Duffy said flight cuts will continue until staffing levels stabilize.
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