Businesses using passenger aircraft for domestic freight transportation may experience delays due to FAA order to reduce schedules at busy airports during the shutdown. However, all-cargo carriers are expected to have minimal impact.
The FAA order directs airlines to cut flights by 10% at 40 domestic airports to alleviate strain on the system. Delays were already seen at various airports last weekend. Cargo airlines are working with the FAA to mitigate potential effects on customers.
20-40% of air traffic controllers at the top 30 airports are not showing up for work. Flight reductions will be gradually implemented, starting with a 4% reduction on Friday. Cargo-dominant airports like Memphis, Louisville, and Cincinnati are among the 40 designated for cutbacks.
All-cargo airlines are evaluating potential impacts and activating contingency plans if needed. The reduction in commercial routes could tighten air capacity for high-value, time-critical shipments, leading to temporary constraints and longer transit times.
UPS is facing delays due to the FAA order, compounded by recovery from a deadly crash at its Louisville hub. The reduction in aviation capacity may affect express products delivery standards. Louisville airport is operating with two of its three runways closed due to the accident investigation.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Cargo airlines, shippers face mixed impact from FAA flight restrictions