Chaos erupted across America's aviation network on Friday as 40 major airports simultaneously implemented emergency flight reductions, cancelling or delaying more than 5,000 flights in a single day. The unprecedented mandate stems from the ongoing government shutdown, now stretching into its 38th day as the longest in US history.

The Federal Aviation Administration ordered a 4% flight cut at critical hubs including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Washington DC, with reductions set to reach 10% by next week. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned cuts could hit 20% if the shutdown persists, though international travel remains unaffected due to existing agreements.

Air traffic controllers, working without pay for over a month, face mounting pressure as essential workers report severe fatigue and stress-related illnesses. Many have taken second jobs to survive whilst managing passenger safety.

Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, described workers as 'political pawns' in the congressional standoff, emphasising they 'cannot suddenly put money in our own pockets.'

Major airlines including Delta, United and American offered full refunds and fee waivers as passengers scrambled for alternatives. Joe Sullivan missed his cousin's wedding after his Atlanta flight was cancelled, whilst another traveller purchased a USD 300 (TK 36,602.10) train ticket as backup for her hour-long flight.

The 38-day shutdown shows slight Capitol Hill movement, though passage of Democratic funding proposals remains unlikely without Republican support requiring 60 Senate votes.