DES MOINES, Iowa —

Three flights in and out of Des Moines International Airport were canceled Friday as part of the FAA’s plan to reduce flights nationwide during the federal government shutdown .

Airport spokesperson Sarah Hoodjer said the cancellations — one to Atlanta and two to Chicago — were communicated Thursday night, and most affected travelers were notified directly by their airlines.

"Just a sign of the times, and this is what we’re doing today," Hoodjer said. "I do believe the airlines have done a great job of getting the information out."

Federal workers face staffing strains while reporting to work without pay. The flight reductions are an effort aimed at easing congestion.

Some travelers reported smooth rebooking. "Yesterday I got a text from United telling me my O’Har

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