Air travel across the United States is facing mounting disruptions as the government shutdown stretches into its second month. 50 Cent took to social media on Sunday to vent frustration over the growing chaos. Even traveling by private jet, 50 Cent encountered significant delays at an airport overwhelmed by cancellations and staffing shortages.
In an Instagram video, he said, “They just said that they’re not even letting the jets go.” On X (formerly Twitter), 50 Cent warned followers, “Man the airport is f*cked up. Forget about traveling right now! Unless you’re driving, all roads lead to Shreveport.” His posts included footage of the chaotic terminal, closing with a blunt advisory: “You can’t try to fly regular.”
What’s Driving the Delays
Airports nationwide are struggling to maintain operations as the shutdown compounds staffing challenges. NBC News reported that more than 7,200 flights were delayed and roughly 2,200 canceled as of Sunday. 50 Cent was part of the turmoil stemming largely from a shortage of air traffic controllers, many of whom have gone unpaid for two months.
To ease the strain, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented a 10% reduction in flights at several high-traffic airports. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said last week, “This is about identifying where the pressure points are and how we can relieve them.” Speaking with Fox News on Thursday, he cautioned that disruptions could intensify as the holiday season approaches. Even celebrities like 50 Cent are not immune to these delays.
“If we remain in this shutdown posture as we approach Thanksgiving, I anticipate it could be especially challenging,” Duffy said. “While we will work to mitigate safety concerns, the likelihood of flights departing on schedule remains uncertain, and continued disruptions are imminent.”
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