FAA Slashes Flights at 40 Airports Amid 2025 Shutdown

FAA Cuts Flights at 40 Major Airports Amid 2025 Government Shutdown

As the US government shutdown in 2025 entered its sixth week on November 7, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) began reducing flights at 40 key airports. This move is intended to address critical air traffic control shortages and reduce controller fatigue by cutting operations by up to 10%.

Impact on Passengers and Operations

On the first day of these cuts, more than 790 flights were removed from schedules, affecting up to 268,000 travelers daily. This has raised concerns about widespread holiday flight delays and cancellations throughout 2025.

This aviation safety crisis, caused by mandatory unpaid overtime with controllers working six days weekly, is causing economic disruptions from delayed package deliveries to interrupted business meetings.

Airports Affected by Reductions

The FAA’s flight reductions apply to 40 high-traffic airports across over two dozen states. Initial cuts began on November 7 with a 4% reduction and will increase to 10% by November 14 during peak morning hours starting at 6 a.m.

Airline Responses and Traveler Guidance

Airlines are adjusting their schedules and advising passengers to check for cancellations and allow extra travel time. The FAA emphasizes safety as its top priority amid these unprecedented operational limits.

Travelers are encouraged to stay informed and prepare for potential delays as the national airspace adjusts to the prolonged government shutdown.

The FAA’s action aims to reduce controller fatigue and maintain safety during a shutdown-induced workforce shortage.

Author’s summary: The FAA’s phased flight reductions at 40 major US airports amid the 2025 shutdown disrupt daily travel for hundreds of thousands, highlighting critical safety and economic challenges.

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International Business Times International Business Times — 2025-11-07

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