Global News Podcast US to cut flights if government shutdown continues
22 snips
Nov 6, 2025 
Lucy Williamson, a BBC Middle East correspondent, shares her firsthand observations from Gaza, detailing the complexities of the ongoing conflict. Acclaimed Canadian author Margaret Atwood reflects on her literary journey and the themes of her iconic work, The Handmaid's Tale. Will Grant discusses President Claudia Sheinbaum's bold stance against sexual harassment in Mexico following a public incident. Meanwhile, Peter Bowes highlights the FAA's drastic flight cuts due to a government shutdown, raising safety concerns for air travelers.
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Air Traffic Cuts Are A Safety Management Move
- The FAA will cut air traffic by about 10% across 40 busy US airports to maintain safety amid the prolonged shutdown.
- Staffing shortages and controller fatigue risk delays, cancellations and deferred maintenance, worsening as the shutdown continues.
Controllers Taking Side Jobs Drives Staffing Pressure
- Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said many controllers are taking second jobs and facing financial pressure after working without pay.
- That trend has produced staffing pressures across US airspace, causing more delays and cancellations.
A 10% Cut Equals Thousands Fewer Flights
- The US handles roughly 44,000 flights daily, so a 10% cut equals about 4,000 fewer flights and large ripple effects.
- Airlines and passengers face a moving, uncertain rollout as cuts may phase in from 3–4% to 10% over days.
