American Airlines Set to Reduce Flights to New York

American Airlines, a major US-based airline with the largest fleet size in the world, has decided to reduce the number of flights in New York this Summer. 

The decision came after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) temporarily relaxed some conditions. As a result, flights will be reduced on routes to La Guardia Airport, Dallas, Miami, Kansas City and St. Louis, and Newark Liberty International Airport.

Last month, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requested Delta Airlines and United Airlines to return 10 per cent of their slots and flight times. At that time, New York’s LaGuardia Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport reported a shortage of air traffic controllers.

There are doubts that if the number of flights is reduced summer travel could be rough for air travellers.

Airlines are already struggling to meet rising flight demand following the pandemic. Meanwhile, JetBlue Airways has disclosed that they are monitoring the matter of reduction of the flight schedule after the FAA’s announcement. They are working to overcome obstacles to lend a helping hand. However, the company is also looking at other alternative ways.

According to JetBlue, the reduction in flights is disappointing for customers. Because they have a number of plans to celebrate summer vacation. Additionally, New York City is also working its way back to normal from the pandemic, getting busier. According to the FAA, summer travel time can result in reduced activity. This will create the possibility of meeting the shortage of traffic controllers. If an airline leaves 80 per cent of the allotted time unused, that airline loses the slot. However, the FAA hopes that reduced flights will not affect passengers. It is also said that airlines can use bigger planes to solve this problem.

The trade association of American Airlines has revealed that 10 per cent of the scheduled flights have already been cut to overcome performance issues by spring. Although, it still remains below the target. Last summer, 41,498 flights at New York Airport left late due to this excessive pressure alone. The FAA believes the new guidance will solve the ongoing delay problem.