The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) urges major airlines flying to and from New York's busiest airports to reduce their flight schedules this summer to prevent overcrowding, reduce delays and keep air travel safe. American, Delta, JetBlue, and United Airlines, have all agreed to cut thousands of departures from May 15 to September 15, with the possibility of reclaiming them later when air traffic picks up. The plans come as a result of a severe air traffic controller shortage in the Northeast U.S that threatens to cause pervasive delays. FAA blames the pandemic for its inability to recruit and train new hires, resulting in only 54% of its staffing targets achieved. With limited personnel to handle complex airspaces, the chances of more air-travel chaos in the coming months are high.

As flights get reduced, passengers traveling to or from New York's JFK and LaGuardia Airports, Newark Liberty, and Reagan National in Washington, D.C., may face fewer booking options with up to 10% total departures slashed. JetBlue, which lists Boston as its focus city, also plans to reduce its flights between Boston Logan Airport and Newark Airport during July and August. Flyers are advised to check with their airlines on the status of their flights before heading to the airport.