Air Freight Capacity Reduction

Temporary Air Freight Capacity Reductions Due to U.S. Government Shutdown

Recent developments are impacting air cargo operations across the United States, prompting adjustments throughout the logistics industry. Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced a 10% reduction in air traffic operations across approximately 40 major U.S. markets. This action is being taken as a precautionary measure in response to limited staffing for air traffic control and safety oversight functions. (see complete list)

Impact on Air Cargo

As a result, airlines and cargo operators are temporarily reducing available route capacity and adjusting flight schedules to comply with these restrictions. While essential freight services continue to operate, customers may experience:

  • Reduced uplift capacity on certain domestic and international routes
  • Longer transit times or schedule adjustments due to flight rescheduling and congestion at key airports
  • Potential delays in cargo processing and handling, particularly at major hubs affected by FAA staffing shortages
  • Some previously booked cargo shipments may be impacted by unexpected flight cancellations.

What to Expect

Our operations and carrier partners are closely monitoring the situation and actively coordinating to minimize disruptions. We continue to prioritize critical freight, time-sensitive shipments, and supply chain continuity wherever possible.

To help us manage your logistics needs efficiently during this period, we recommend:

  • Booking shipments as early as possible to secure available space
  • Allowing additional lead time for pick-up and delivery

Staying Informed

We understand how vital reliable air transport is to your business and will continue to keep you informed as more information becomes available. Thank you for your patience and partnership as the aviation community works to restore full operations. Should you have any questions or require further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your dedicated account manager or our customer service team.

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