Air Travel Chaos Hits U.S. Airports Amid Government Shutdown

Tue Nov 11 2025 09:29:38 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Air travelers brace for more disruptions as U.S. airports face increased flight cancellations due to staffing shortages during the ongoing government shutdown, leading to growing frustrations.

U.S. airports are set to face more flight cancellations as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates a higher reduction in flights to address ongoing staffing shortages amid the government shutdown. Over 7,900 flights have already been canceled, with further restrictions expected as freezing weather adds to the turmoil. The Senate has passed a bill to reopen the government, but significant delays remain for air traffic controllers and operations.

Air travelers could face further frustration as busy U.S. airports are required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to meet a higher target for reducing flights due to ongoing staffing shortages amid the government shutdown.

The FAA has ordered domestic airlines to cut 4% of flights at 40 major U.S. airports. After already canceling over 7,900 flights since Friday, the goal for cuts will increase to 6% on Tuesday and potentially reach 10% by Friday. The exact number of cancellations required for Tuesday is unclear, with the average rate already exceeding FAA's requirements.

Controller shortages have contributed to significant flight delays, including a five-hour backlog for arriving flights at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, where winter weather compounded the challenges. The FAA has also expanded flight restrictions, prohibiting many private flights and business jets from using several airports already facing commercial flight limits.

Freezing weather across parts of the country could further exacerbate the situation, leading to additional delays and cancellations. Meanwhile, the Senate has passed legislation aimed at reopening the government, yet final approval in the House may take several days.

The FAA emphasized that flight cuts will remain in place until staffing levels stabilize in control towers and facilities. Many planes are not in their necessary locations, complicating the airlines’ return to normal operations even after FAA restrictions are lifted.

Concerns are mounting, particularly as flight cancellations are adversely affecting many passengers, including those missing significant life events. Calls for grounding all private jets during the shutdown are also growing louder as travelers express frustration over the unequal impact of cancellations.

As controllers continue to face financial challenges with missed paydays, the stress of the workload can lead to increased attrition rates among staff. With pressure from authorities to return to normalcy, the safety and well-being of aviation personnel remain critical considerations amidst this ongoing crisis.