Nashville airport not targeted for flight cuts, but delays still likely

State of play: The FAA tied the planned 10% cuts to the ongoing government shutdown, which has forced air traffic controllers and TSA agents to work without pay.

• Air traffic controller shortages have become common during the shutdown, triggering slowdowns at BNA and airports coast to coast.

What they're saying: Officials at BNA confirmed that the airport wouldn't be hit by a 10% traffic cut. But in a statement, they warned flyers that "we do fly to many of the impacted airports" in Atlanta, Chicago and elsewhere.

• Cuts in major hubs will almost certainly have a downstream effect in Nashville.
• "We highly recommend all passengers check directly with their airline prior to arriving at the airport for the most up-to-date flight information and any potential travel impacts."

What we're watching: More cuts could follow if the FAA deems it necessary to ensure safety, potentially affecting Thanksgiving travel later this month.

• "If the pressures continue to build even after we take these measures, we'll come back and take additional measures," FAA administrator Bryan Bedford said Wednesday.

What's next: Many airlines expect the cuts to begin on Friday.