The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reducing air traffic by 10% across 40 high-volume markets, starting this Friday, citing safety concerns and staffing shortages in air traffic controllers. This will affect Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, along with Ronald Reagan Washington National and Washington Dulles International airports.
The FAA is acting to relieve pressure on controllers who are working without pay during the government shutdown. The agency has fewer than 11,000 certified controllers, which is 3,000 short of the nationwide target.
Southwest Airlines, operating a regional hub at BWI, is evaluating how air traffic cuts will impact its flights. The airline will automatically rebook canceled flights and provide refunds to affected travelers.
The airport saw “significant impact” on operations for airlines and passengers during the first month of the shutdown but has not seen major disruptions yet. Travelers are advised to check their flight schedules with airlines for any cancellations or delays.
Source: https://www.thebanner.com/community/transportation/bwi-dca-iad-flight-cuts-faa-government-shutdown-JT4TNHPMJREV3I4IOSCDDNCBNI