The FAA is slashing flights because of the shutdown. Here’s what travelers can expect

Travelers face significant disruptions as the Federal Aviation Administration implements flight schedule cuts at 40 major airports across the United States starting Friday, a measure aimed at easing pressure on air traffic controllers during the ongoing government shutdown.

The unprecedented move comes as FAA officials cite growing concerns over safety amid staffing shortages and the continued strain on controllers working without pay. Many controllers were already working six-day weeks with mandatory overtime before the shutdown began, but are now doing so without compensation as lawmakers remain deadlocked over reopening the government.

The cuts will affect aviation hubs in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and other major cities according to the FAA order published Thursday evening. By late Thursday afternoon, hundreds of flights had already been canceled, with numbers expected to rise substantially in coming days as reductions increase from 4% on Friday to 10% by November 14.

Passengers should prepare for potential delays and more crowded flights heading into the weekend and beyond, with disruptions likely to impact holiday travel plans.

The list of affected airports spans more than two dozen states, including the nation’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, along with major facilities in Anchorage, Boston, Denver, Honolulu, Las Vegas, Miami, San Francisco, Salt Lake City, and numerous others. Several metropolitan areas, including New York, Houston, Chicago, and Washington, will see multiple airports impacted simultaneously.

The reductions will be in effect between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. local time and will affect all commercial airlines, creating a widespread impact on the nation’s air transportation system.

The duration of these restrictions remains uncertain. Even if the government shutdown ends soon, the FAA has indicated the flight restrictions will remain until staffing at airport towers and regional air traffic centers returns to levels that ensure safe operations.

“It’s going to take time to work through this,” said Michael Johnson, president of Ensemble Travel, an association of travel agencies in the U.S. and Canada. He emphasized the importance of planning ahead, whether for already booked flights or upcoming holiday travel arrangements.

Airlines were expected to notify passengers of cancellations on Thursday, but travelers should regularly check airline apps or flight-tracking websites before departing for the airport. United Airlines has indicated it will focus cuts on regional routes using smaller aircraft to minimize disruption to its larger services.

For those whose flights are canceled, travel experts recommend staying calm and exploring options. If already at the airport, passengers should get in line for customer service while simultaneously attempting to connect with the airline’s reservations staff by phone or online. Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) can also provide quick responses from airlines.

Alternative transportation methods, including train, car, or bus travel, might become necessary options as the situation develops.

Kyle Potter, executive editor of Thrifty Traveler, notes that this shutdown differs from typical situations where problems affect a single airline. “The longer the shutdown drags on, it’s unlikely that there will be one airline running on time if the rest of them are failing,” Potter said, highlighting the system-wide nature of the disruption.

According to the FAA, airlines will be required to issue full refunds for canceled flights. However, they aren’t obligated to cover secondary costs like food and accommodations unless delays result from factors within their control. Travelers should check the Department of Transportation’s website to understand what their specific airline promises regarding refunds and other compensations.

Despite the challenges, experts aren’t advising people to cancel holiday travel plans altogether. Johnson suggests that preparation and flexibility will be essential, and notes that once the shutdown ends, there will likely be a surge in bookings as travelers rush to secure new arrangements.

For those still planning to fly, travel experts recommend packing light with only carry-on luggage when possible to avoid additional airport lines and to keep belongings accessible if plans change unexpectedly. They also emphasize the importance of patience and kindness toward airline staff who are dealing with numerous frustrated travelers and situations beyond their control.

“An extra ounce of kindness to yourself and to others at this time of year, with all of the disruptions, will go a long way,” Johnson advised as travelers navigate the unprecedented aviation challenges.