Local travelers are bracing for potential disruptions and increased costs as a result of reduced flight schedules at New York’s three major hub airports, La Guardia, JFK, and Newark.
The reduced schedules are a consequence of an air traffic controller shortage, prompting American Airlines to announce plans to cut back on flights. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) anticipates this could lead to a 45% increase in flight delays out of the New York hub airports.
In response to the shortage, the FAA has announced its commitment to hiring as many qualified air traffic controllers as possible. However, in the short term, this will not alleviate the difficulties faced by travelers.
Travelers emphasize the importance of ensuring that any efforts to address the shortage prioritize safety and avoid rushing the hiring and training process. As the nation’s airline industry continues to recover from the pandemic, striking a balance between expanding the workforce and maintaining safety standards is crucial to avoid putting lives at risk.
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