Airlines are making adjustments due to the ongoing government shutdown, with the FAA announcing a reduction in flights by 10% at 40 airports. Major airlines are waiving cancellation fees and offering refunds for affected flights. Airports like ATL, LAX, and JFK are expected to be impacted. Travelers are advised to stay informed and be flexible with travel plans.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the reduction in flight capacity as a proactive measure due to delays and cancellations caused by the shutdown. Air traffic controllers have missed paychecks, leading to concerns about staffing. Additional measures may be implemented, with airlines meeting to discuss flight cuts. United, Delta, Frontier, American, and Southwest are offering flexibility for affected travelers.

Experts recommend travelers stay informed about flight changes, enable notifications on airline apps, and be flexible with travel plans. Kindness is key when facing disruptions, with long wait times expected. AAA advises arriving early, avoiding checked bags, and being flexible. Travel insurance may offer reimbursement for certain costs incurred from trip disruptions, but coverage varies based on policy details.

Travel insurance is seeing increased sales amid the shutdown, but policies may not offer blanket protection for all travel disruptions. Cancel-for-any-reason coverage comes with caveats, and compensation depends on the reason provided by the airline for delays or cancellations. Insurers generally pay benefits for common carrier disruptions like mechanical failures, which are usually covered in comprehensive travel insurance plans.

Read more at CNBC: Here’s what travelers need to know about FAA airport flight reductions