By Nov. 14, airlines must cut 10% of their operations \u2014 or face $75,000 fines per over-limit flight.<\/p>\n
As of Friday morning, 29 flights at OIA were already impacted \u2014 12 of them departures.<\/p>\n
The FAA said the cuts are needed to maintain safety, calling air traffic control a \u201czero-mistake\u201d operation.<\/p>\n
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority issued a statement to WFTV Friday morning regarding the order, that read, in part:<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is expected to result in fewer arrivals and departures at MCO, which should slow the rate of activity in the National Airspace System and assist airports that are experiencing staffing challenges. Ultimately, this order maintains the highest level of safety.<\/p>\n
To this point, Orlando International has been fortunate that federal airport employees have continued to come to work and there has been minimal impact to airport operations. We deeply appreciate our federal partners for their commitment.<\/p>\n
The reduction in flights is likely to impact passengers, unfortunately, and we ask that they check directly with their airlines regarding delays and cancellations.<\/p>\n
The airport will be fully staffed to assist as much as possible during this time.”<\/p>\n
Travelers should check with their airlines for updates and know they\u2019re entitled to a refund <\/a>if their flight is canceled or significantly delayed.<\/p>\n Click here<\/a> to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here<\/a> to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.<\/p>\n