UPDATE: Significant disruptions are impacting air travel at Duluth International Airport as federal authorities mandate drastic cuts to flight schedules amid a continuing federal shutdown. As of September 29, 2023, one of the four daily Delta Airlines flights between Duluth and Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP) has been canceled, raising concerns for travelers in the region.
The flight, originally scheduled to arrive in Duluth at 3:30 p.m. and depart at 4:10 p.m., was abruptly removed from the schedule, according to Natalie Baker, the airport’s director of communications and marketing. This cancellation is part of a broader directive affecting 40 major airports nationwide, which have been ordered to reduce flight operations by 10% to alleviate pressure on air traffic control staff facing staffing shortages due to the lack of paychecks.
As airlines prioritize hub-to-hub operations and long-haul flights, regional connections, particularly to smaller destinations like Duluth, are at heightened risk of further interruptions. “We’re not expecting any immediate impact,” Baker stated, but acknowledged that the situation is fluid as the federal deadline for the flight reduction approaches.
Travelers are advised to stay informed and check with their airlines for updates on their itineraries, especially regarding connecting flights. Many major carriers, including Delta, are currently allowing customers to rebook without penalties during this turbulent period.
Baker expressed the uncertainty of the situation, saying, “I wish we had more information. All of this is subject to change right now. So, we’re keeping our finger on the pulse.”
Currently, Duluth International provides four daily flights to and from MSP and another four to and from Chicago via United Airlines. The airport remains vigilant as developments unfold, and the impact of the federal shutdown continues to ripple through the aviation industry.
Travelers are urged to remain proactive in managing their travel plans as the situation evolves, with significant implications for air travel across the country.
