RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Wednesday, the Federal Aviation Administration announced that there could be a 10% reduction in air traffic at 40 of the busiest markets starting Friday.

As the longest government shutdown continues Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says air traffic controllers are having to take side jobs to make ends meet.

Thursday will mark one full month without any pay.

“This is about where the pressures and how do we elevate that pressure,” Duffy said.

Before the shutdown, there was already a shortage of air traffic controllers nationwide. The reduction would be put in place to maintain safety.

“I want to reassure the American travelers that it is absolutely safe to fly in the American skies,” FAA Administrator, Bryan Bedford said.

Travelers coming into RDU worry what this could mean as the holiday travel season is around the corner.

“I’m just like I don’t know if I can make it,” Traveler, Karen Carr said.

Carr said she is praying that a resolution is made to stop the shutdown.

“Maybe there’s some light at the end of the tunnel, maybe the white house or the government will see some crack or some movement soon. That’s what my prayers are,” Carr said.

The FAA is expected to release the list of impacted markets Thursday.