Flight Disruptions Continue as US Shutdown Persists

Fri Dec 05 2025 06:47:27 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Over 1,400 flights were cancelled and thousands delayed due to air traffic cuts imposed by the FAA amid the ongoing US government shutdown. The situation is affecting travelers across the country, just weeks before the Thanksgiving holiday.

The US is experiencing significant disruptions in air travel as more than 1,400 flights were cancelled and nearly 6,000 delayed due to mandated air traffic cuts by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) during an extended government shutdown. As the shutdown enters its 39th day, travelers face increasing delays and cancellations, prompting airlines to call for immediate resolutions from government leaders.

More than 1,400 flights to, from, or within the US were cancelled on Saturday after airlines were told this week to cut traffic during the federal government shutdown. Nearly 6,000 flights were also delayed, down from over 7,000 delays on Friday, according to flight tracker FlightAware.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced earlier in the week that it would be reducing air travel capacity by up to 10% at 40 of the nation's busiest airports as air traffic controllers, working without pay during the shutdown, report fatigue.

As the shutdown, which began on 1 October, continues, bipartisan negotiations among lawmakers are underway but no resolution has yet been reached. American Airlines has urged leaders in Washington, D.C., to resolve the ongoing crisis without further delay.

Newark Liberty International Airport is currently experiencing some of the longest wait times, with arrivals delayed by an average of more than four hours. Meanwhile, significant cancellations are affecting Charlotte/Douglas International, Newark, and Chicago O'Hare International airports.

Additionally, restrictions have been placed on private jets to alleviate congestion at busy airports, reflecting the ongoing impact of the shutdown and the need for effective air traffic management.

With the Thanksgiving holiday quickly approaching, these disruptions are especially concerning for travelers as more forecasted cuts loom ahead in the weeks to come.