Travelers, get ready for some turbulence—not just in the skies but also with your travel plans. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new order that is expected to reduce air traffic by a whopping 10% across 40 major airports. This change comes as the agency grapples with a shortage of air traffic control staff, a situation that has all the makings of a travel conundrum. So if you’re planning to fly soon, buckle up and read on to find out what this all means for your upcoming trips.

First and foremost, travelers should expect to see a significant reduction in flights. The FAA’s order isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a directive aimed at keeping the skies safe. Safety is a top priority for all airlines, but this particular action is a reminder that even the skies can get a little crowded, and not in the fun way, like at a concert! Passengers should pay close attention to their email or their airline’s app for any updates about their flights. After all, being in the loop can give you a smoother ride through the chaos.

Airlines are not sitting idly by as this situation unfolds. In fact, they are proactively canceling flights and rebooking passengers to minimize disruptions at the airport. Want to avoid showing up at the terminal with your bags packed and nowhere to go? Keep an eye on those notifications, because if your trip gets canceled, the airline will typically place you on another flight. You’ll have the choice to accept the new flight or decline it. If you decide to reject it, fear not! You could still snag yourself a full refund—even if you originally bought a non-refundable or basic economy ticket. Now that’s a pleasant surprise!

While most people aim to fly out of big airports, travelers should think about keeping their options open. If the trip is essential and the primary airport you’re considering looks a little shaky, it might be wise to look into secondary or regional airports. Sometimes a smaller airport can be a hidden gem, offering more available flights and less stress. Just make sure to book those backup flights using miles and points if you can. Why? Because unlike regular tickets, those can be canceled with just a few taps and your miles are usually returned to your account without any hiccups.

In summary, as the FAA’s new order shakes things up, it’s crucial for travelers to stay ahead of the game. Be proactive with checking your flight status and keep your options flexible. Whether it’s exploring alternative airports or leveraging those trusty reward points, a little preparation can make a world of difference. After all, when it comes to travel, it’s always better to be safe (and well-informed) than sorry! So, whether you’re heading out for business, vacation, or a surprise visit to a loved one, make sure your travel plans are as smooth as your flight path—who knows, you might just take off in more ways than one!