MEMPHIS, Tenn. — If your plans are to fly in the near future, be aware that the number of available flights from the Memphis airport are being reduced, starting Friday, due to the federal government shutdown.
Memphis International Airport (MEM) is one of 40 high-volume U.S. airports bracing for a 10 percent reduction in flights, an unprecedented move by the Federal Aviation Administration to maintain safety as the ongoing government shutdown strains air traffic control.
The FAA’s mandate, set to begin Friday, is a direct response to growing staffing shortages and fatigue among air traffic controllers, who have been working without pay.
The 10 percent flight reduction order will impact all domestic operations, including passenger and cargo flights. While a precise number has not been finalized, the cut will be spread across Memphis’s daily schedule.
The airport, which averages 80 to 90 passenger flights daily, could see approximately 8 to 9 of those flights cut.
The inclusion of Memphis on the “high-volume” list is largely due to its status as the global “SuperHub” for FedEx. The FAA has confirmed that cargo flights are included in the reduction mandate. However, a critical exemption for international flights is expected to protect a significant portion of the hub’s global operations. All domestic cargo flights remain subject to the 10 percent cut.
The move is intended to relieve pressure on the national airspace system and ensure controller-staffing levels can safely manage the volume of traffic.
Here is what you need to know about the impact on MEM:
What: Memphis International Airport is one of 40 airports on a proposed list for a 10 percent flight reduction.
Why: The government shutdown has caused staffing shortages and fatigue among unpaid FAA air traffic controllers, prompting this “proactive” safety measure.
Passenger Impact: Approximately 8 to 9 daily passenger flights are expected to be cut, based on current schedules.
Cargo Impact: Domestic cargo flights are included in the 10 percent reduction. International flights are exempt, which will shield some of FedEx’s “SuperHub” operations.
When: The flight reductions are scheduled to begin Friday.
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates and high school football play-by-play on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
