US Government Shutdown Causes Major Air Travel Disruptions
Published 8 November 2025
Highlights
- Over 1,400 flights were canceled on Saturday due to the US government shutdown, impacting air travel nationwide.
- The FAA has ordered a gradual reduction in air traffic, reaching up to 10% by mid-November, due to staffing shortages.
- Major airports like Newark, Charlotte, and Chicago O'Hare experienced significant delays and cancellations.
- Air traffic controllers are working without pay, leading to fatigue and increased sick calls, exacerbating the situation.
- The shutdown's impact is expected to worsen, particularly with the upcoming Thanksgiving travel season.
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Rewritten Article
US Government Shutdown Causes Major Air Travel Disruptions
The ongoing US government shutdown has led to significant disruptions in air travel, with over 1,400 flights canceled on Saturday alone. This marks the second day of flight reductions mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a result of the shutdown, which has now become the longest in US history.
Impact on Major Airports
The FAA's decision to cut air traffic by up to 10% at 40 of the nation's busiest airports has caused widespread delays and cancellations. Newark Liberty International Airport faced some of the longest delays, with arrivals delayed by over four hours on average. Charlotte/Douglas International and Chicago O'Hare International were among the hardest hit, with numerous flights canceled or delayed.
Air Traffic Controllers Under Strain
Air traffic controllers, deemed essential workers, are required to work without pay during the shutdown. This has led to increased fatigue and a rise in sick calls, as many struggle to manage without their regular income. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association reports that some controllers are taking on second jobs to make ends meet, further straining the system.
Broader Implications
The flight disruptions are part of a broader impact of the shutdown, which has also affected food aid payments and other federal services. With the Thanksgiving travel season approaching, concerns are mounting over potential further disruptions. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has indicated that additional flight cuts may be necessary if the shutdown continues.
Public and Political Reactions
The situation has drawn criticism from both the public and political figures. American Airlines has urged political leaders to resolve the impasse swiftly. Meanwhile, passengers like Emmy Holguin, who was traveling from Miami to the Dominican Republic, expressed frustration, hoping for a quick resolution to the crisis.
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Scenario Analysis
As the shutdown persists, the situation could deteriorate further, particularly with the busy Thanksgiving travel season on the horizon. If the FAA continues to increase flight reductions, the impact on both domestic and international travel could be severe. Economists warn that prolonged disruptions may affect tourism-dependent cities and delay holiday shipments, impacting businesses nationwide. Political negotiations remain at a standstill, but pressure is mounting on lawmakers to find a resolution to prevent further economic and social fallout.
The ongoing US government shutdown has led to significant disruptions in air travel, with over 1,400 flights canceled on Saturday alone. This marks the second day of flight reductions mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a result of the shutdown, which has now become the longest in US history.
Impact on Major Airports
The FAA's decision to cut air traffic by up to 10% at 40 of the nation's busiest airports has caused widespread delays and cancellations. Newark Liberty International Airport faced some of the longest delays, with arrivals delayed by over four hours on average. Charlotte/Douglas International and Chicago O'Hare International were among the hardest hit, with numerous flights canceled or delayed.
Air Traffic Controllers Under Strain
Air traffic controllers, deemed essential workers, are required to work without pay during the shutdown. This has led to increased fatigue and a rise in sick calls, as many struggle to manage without their regular income. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association reports that some controllers are taking on second jobs to make ends meet, further straining the system.
Broader Implications
The flight disruptions are part of a broader impact of the shutdown, which has also affected food aid payments and other federal services. With the Thanksgiving travel season approaching, concerns are mounting over potential further disruptions. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has indicated that additional flight cuts may be necessary if the shutdown continues.
Public and Political Reactions
The situation has drawn criticism from both the public and political figures. American Airlines has urged political leaders to resolve the impasse swiftly. Meanwhile, passengers like Emmy Holguin, who was traveling from Miami to the Dominican Republic, expressed frustration, hoping for a quick resolution to the crisis.
What this might mean
As the shutdown persists, the situation could deteriorate further, particularly with the busy Thanksgiving travel season on the horizon. If the FAA continues to increase flight reductions, the impact on both domestic and international travel could be severe. Economists warn that prolonged disruptions may affect tourism-dependent cities and delay holiday shipments, impacting businesses nationwide. Political negotiations remain at a standstill, but pressure is mounting on lawmakers to find a resolution to prevent further economic and social fallout.
