The FAA announced it will be cutting back on flights by 10% across 40 of the busiest airports — including those in the NYC area starting Friday.

Safety is the main reason the FAA says less planes will be flying out of Laguardia Airport, JFK and Newark International.

“Making sure that we get places safely and on time to me is part of what I think should be expected for all travelers and people in the U.S.,” said Sheila Davis, traveling home to Indianapolis after a trip to New York.

The news comes after air traffic controllers reach day 36 of not being paid since the government shut down — yet still expected to show up for work.

“I can't blame them,” said Fran Adams. “I would not want to do my job and not get a paycheck. It’s not fair in my mind that other people are taking paychecks in the government.”

Approximately 3.2 million people flew in and out of the New York City-area airports during the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday period.

Now, with just weeks away from one of the busiest travel times of the year, there’s been more questions than answers so far.

“What's going to happen with our flight?” asked Gabriel Bosquet. “Are we going to be able to make it or are we going to have to cancel. Are we going to have to change our plans? No one knows.”

Travelers say the issue goes beyond a safe vacation, but it's up to our leaders to turn things around.

“It's hard for people to get everybody together,” said Adams. “Think of the expense people are going through using up their vacation days. There's no consideration for any of us. Do your job. Sit down and close the doors. Work this out.”

“It makes me concerned that our government can’t find a path forward,” said Davis.