WASHINGTON: Hundreds of flights across the United States were canceled after the Trump administration ordered airlines to cut domestic flights due to the ongoing government shutdown.

According to British media, flight operations at around 40 major airports have been affected as authorities try to reduce the workload on air traffic controllers.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said domestic flights would initially be reduced by 4%, with cuts expected to reach 10% by the end of next week. Officials warned that the move could impact around 4,000 flights nationwide.

Many airport control towers are facing a shortage of air traffic controllers, as some employees have stopped working or taken sick leave after not receiving their salaries due to the shutdown.

Airlines such as United and Delta have assured passengers that they will receive full refunds for canceled flights.

The flight disruptions have added to growing frustration among travelers, while airline officials warn that extended shutdown measures could severely affect the aviation industry’s operations and finances.