FAA Flight Reductions Impact Major Florida Airports
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered a 10% reduction in flights at 40 major airports, including Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Tampa International Airport (TPA), due to the federal government shutdown beginning November 7.
Avelo Airlines Considers Lakeland Linder Airport
This mandate affects Avelo Airlines, which currently operates flights at Orlando and Tampa. Avelo has stated on its website:
“We will carefully assess flights in and out of these airports and make thoughtful schedule changes that support the FAA’s efforts and minimize disruptions to customers.”
Lakeland Linder Airport Positions as an Alternative
Kris Hallstrand, director of Lakeland Linder International Airport, confirmed ongoing discussions with Avelo Airlines regarding the FAA-mandated flight cuts.
“We are working closely with our airline partner to discuss ways to help mitigate the impact of the airspace reduction,”
she said, adding:
“We are working to make ourselves available as an alternative airport at this time.”
Current Avelo Services from Lakeland
- Avelo operates flights to eight destinations from Lakeland Linder.
- None of these destinations’ airports are among the 40 airports requiring flight reductions.
As of 2:30 p.m., specific information on how the FAA’s flight cuts will affect Lakeland Linder’s flight volume remains unavailable.
Summary
This FAA initiative may lead to increased flight activity at Lakeland Linder, as it offers an alternative amid cuts at busier Florida airports, with Avelo Airlines exploring schedule adjustments to adapt.