FAA flight reductions in the U.S. could affect connections with the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced an imminent reduction in air traffic across major U.S. airports, a measure that could impact flights connecting to the Dominican Republic from key hubs such as New York, Boston, Dallas, Miami, and Orlando—cities that handle most Caribbean-bound routes.

According to The New York Times, the FAA will begin reducing commercial flights by 4% on Friday, expanding to 10% over the weekend, due to a shortage of air traffic controllers and the effects of a partial U.S. government shutdown. The measure will primarily affect the country’s busiest airports, including JFK, LaGuardia, Boston Logan, Dallas-Fort Worth, Miami International, Orlando International, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, and Atlanta, among others.

Airlines serving the Dominican Republic are expressing concern, as over 60% of the country’s international air traffic originates from the United States, with the busiest routes being New York–Santo Domingo, Miami–Punta Cana, and Orlando–Santiago. A sustained flight reduction could cause delays, cancellations, and a temporary decline in arrivals, particularly during the high winter tourism season.

While the FAA has not announced when normal operations will resume, it stated that adjustments will remain in place until staffing levels are stabilized and air traffic safety is fully ensured.

Meanwhile, Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI (Aerodom) confirmed that flights between the U.S. and the Dominican Republic are currently operating as scheduled and advised passengers to monitor flight updates and confirm itineraries directly with their airlines.