US FAA Extends Airlines' Minimum Flight Requirements at NY Airports
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has extended temporary cuts to minimum flight requirements at congested New York City-area airports and Washington National Airport until October 28, due to air traffic controller staffing issues. The waiver, initially granted in March, allows airlines to temporarily return up to 10% of slots and flights at these airports. Major airlines have requested the extension, citing ongoing low staffing levels in a key New York air traffic sector. The FAA is working with a major air traffic controller union to find a long-term solution. The agency has urged airlines to use larger planes to transport more passengers and has stated that no additional waivers will be granted beyond October 28 based on staffing issues.