KCI travelers could face flight headaches amid FAA cuts
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Kansas City International Airport (KCI) isn't on the FAA's list of 40 airports facing flight cuts — but local travelers could still feel the pinch.
Why it matters: Thousands of passengers nationwide are expected to see significant delays and cancellations just in time for the busy holiday travel season.
The big picture: The FAA announced Wednesday that it will reduce air traffic by up to 10% at 40 airports across the country to maintain safety as unpaid controllers work long hours during the government shutdown.
- Even without local cutbacks, more than 30 out of 40 airports facing cuts have nonstop service to KC, meaning travelers here could see longer layovers and missed connections, KCI officials tell Axios.
- Major hubs including Chicago O'Hare, Dallas-Fort Worth and Denver — all KCI connections — are expected to see cuts.
What they're saying: Kansas City Aviation Department officials say KCI operations remain normal, but they're closely tracking national changes.
- "Local travelers will most likely still see impacts at KCI," director of aviation Melissa Cooper tells Axios. "We encourage all travelers to check with their airlines for any delays or cancellations."
Between the lines: The FAA's move is an unprecedented step in the record government shutdown, now stretching past five weeks. Air traffic controllers have worked unpaid since Oct. 1, and resignations are mounting.
Flashback: Flight disruptions helped end the 2018-19 shutdown after mass delays hit East Coast airports such as LaGuardia and Newark, NPR reported.
The bottom line: Flights from KCI may still depart on time, but, depending on your destination, they might not arrive on time.
Go deeper: What to do if your flight is canceled amid the shutdown