The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has led to significant disruptions in air travel, with hundreds of flights canceled nationwide as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implements capacity reductions to ensure safety.
What Happened
On November 7, 2025, airlines canceled over 790 flights following an FAA order to reduce operations by 4% at 40 major U.S. airports, with plans to increase cuts to 10% by November 14. According to CNN, this measure addresses staffing shortages due to air traffic controllers calling in sick amid the shutdown. USA Today reported that Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned of potential 20% cuts if the impasse continues. Affected cities include New York, Houston, and Chicago, impacting thousands of passengers ahead of the holiday season.
The shutdown, now the longest in history, has furloughed essential workers, leading to safety concerns in air traffic control. The FAA's phased reductions aim to prevent accidents from overworked staff, as per Reuters. Broader economic pressures and partisan gridlock exacerbate the issue, disrupting travel plans and airline operations.
Expert Opinion
American Airlines CEO noted, "These cancellations are impacting thousands, and we've re-accommodated most within hours, but the uncertainty is frustrating." FAA officials emphasize safety, stating, "Gradual increases allow for manageable adjustments."
What to Expect
If unresolved, cuts could reach 20%, severely affecting holiday travel. Expect more cancellations, higher fares, and calls for congressional intervention to end the shutdown.