The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has raised concerns over plans by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to reduce flight capacity by 10% across 40 major US airports, warning the move could worsen disruption during the ongoing government shutdown.
Lack of Clarity Raises Supply Chain Risks
The announcement comes as the shutdown enters its 37th day, with aviation operations already under strain. However, the FAA has yet to confirm which airports, such as JFK Airport (JFK) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), will be affected or how the reductions will be implemented.
AfA Executive Director Brandon Fried said the absence of details is creating uncertainty across the cargo sector.
“Forwarders and their customers need answers,” Fried said, calling for clarity on airport coverage and operational changes.
Air cargo schedules, which rely on tight turnaround times and coordinated logistics, face disruption if capacity cuts are introduced without notice. Industry analysts say even limited reductions at major hubs could delay shipments moving through key gateways including Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
Staff Shortages Add Pressure
The shutdown has left essential federal workers, including air traffic controllers, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) staff, working without pay, raising concerns over staffing levels.
“Air cargo depends on every part of the aviation ecosystem working in sync,” Fried said, warning that prolonged disruption could slow supply chains further.
While no implementation timeline has been confirmed, industry groups say any cuts are likely to affect peak-hour scheduling first, with cargo operators adjusting freighter capacity and cargo space on passenger flights accordingly.
AfA has urged US lawmakers to resolve the shutdown and provide immediate clarity on the FAA’s plans.
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