The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is preparing to reduce airline capacity by 10% at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports starting Friday, as the ongoing 36-day government shutdown exacerbates an already critical shortage of air traffic controllers. The move, according to a proposed list obtained from a source familiar with internal discussions, is part of an emergency response to manage staffing levels and prevent potential safety lapses.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed Wednesday that the cuts will target “high-volume” areas most affected by the staffing shortage. Thousands of air traffic controllers have been working without pay since the shutdown began, forcing the agency to implement phased reductions that will take full effect early next week.

While the FAA has not publicly released the list of affected airports, a proposed roster shared with CBS News includes some of the country’s largest passenger hubs:

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL)

• Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW)

• John F. Kennedy International (JFK), New York

• Los Angeles International (LAX)

• Chicago O’Hare International (ORD)

• Miami International (MIA)

Also on the list are key cargo and logistics centers such as Louisville Muhammad Ali International (SDF), Memphis International (MEM), Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC), and Ontario International (ONT) in California. Teterboro Airport (TEB) in New Jersey—a major hub for private jets—will also face restrictions.

The cuts will cap total operations, including takeoffs and landings, during peak travel periods. Airlines have been instructed to adjust flight schedules immediately, with some already warning travelers about potential delays and cancellations.

“This is essentially a controlled slowdown to prevent a total collapse,” said one senior airline official, noting that continued unpaid workdays could force even deeper operational cuts.

As the shutdown drags into its fifth week with no resolution in sight, concerns are mounting across the aviation industry about the strain on essential workers and the safety implications of prolonged staffing shortages. Both the FAA and the Department of Transportation declined to comment on the proposal.

For now, passengers flying through major U.S. airports should brace for longer wait times, schedule changes, and potential travel disruptions as the nation’s air system navigates one of its most challenging periods in recent history.