• More than 2,500 flights canceled over the weekend due to the government shutdown.
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ordered a reduction in flights at 40 major airports.
• Air traffic controllers are facing staffing issues, impacting flight operations nationwide.
• Impacts of the flight cuts could extend beyond travel, affecting tourism and shipping.
• Concerns grow as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, adding pressure to airlines.

As the government shutdown continues, U.S. airlines have canceled over 2,500 flights by Saturday evening. This development follows the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) order to reduce air traffic at 40 major airports, a measure that has deepened the impact of what is now the nation’s longest federal shutdown. Many travelers express frustration, with one passenger stating, "We all travel. We all have somewhere to be,” underscoring the widespread concern over the ongoing disruptions, according to abcnews, huffpost, and sfgate.

The cancellations are part of the FAA's mandate, which initially targeted a reduction of 4% of flights but is slated to increase to 10% by next Friday. Major airports like Charlotte, Atlanta, Chicago, and Newark have been particularly hard hit due to ongoing staffing shortages in air traffic control. As controllers go without pay, many are calling in sick, which exacerbates the already existing shortages, according to abcnews and huffpost.

Travelers are bracing for more disruptions as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. With the potential for increased economic repercussions, analysts warn that the ripple effects could be felt in sectors reliant on tourism, and the cost of shipping goods may also rise. Nearly half of U.S. air freight is transported in passenger aircraft, and disruptions in air travel could lead to higher retail prices, noted supply chain expert Patrick Penfield, as reported by sfgate.

The uncertainty surrounding flight operations has left passengers feeling anxious. Reports indicate that some travelers are canceling flights altogether or changing travel plans due to concerns about staffing and safety amid the shutdown. One passenger shared her experience of having to cancel a family trip, expressing disappointment over thousands of dollars lost on arrangements, illustrating the emotional and financial toll on affected families, as observed in the coverage by huffpost and sfgate.