The FAA plans to cut back flights at Chicago O’Hare this summer due to over-scheduling by airlines.
Reuters reported Friday that the agency will hold a schedule reduction meeting with the major airlines at O’Hare on March 4. Both United and American Airlines have announced plans to increase flights at the airport this summer as they continue to battle for market share and gates.
Regulators said the published schedule for O’Hare shows over 3,000 takeoffs and landings on peak summer days, which is hundreds more than last year.
The FAA is expected to make a final announcement on reductions after the meeting next week. The cutbacks would take effect during the summer travel season, which runs from March 29 through Oct. 25.
According to a report from CBS News, FAA leadership is attempting to prevent a repeat of the operational disruptions seen at Newark, New Jersey, last year.
A document that the outlet said will be published by the FAA next week mentions the likelihood of increased stress on runways, terminals, and air traffic control systems at O’Hare.
The agency is reportedly looking to cap daily flights at 2,800.
