Airlines Hope for Swift Recovery Post-Flight Cuts Amid Federal Shutdown

Thu Nov 13 2025 23:15:08 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Following the lifting of flight cut orders at 40 busy U.S. airports, airlines are optimistic about resuming normal operations. However, the effects of recent staffing shortages due to a federal shutdown may linger.

With the government shutdown concluded and the FAA announcing a maximum cut of 6% for flights, airlines express confidence in returning to normal operations within a few days. Yet, experts warn that ongoing issues may disrupt Thanksgiving travel. The FAA has reported improved staffing levels, alleviating some concerns over air traffic controller shortages that had led to flight cancellations.

Airlines are optimistic about resuming normal operations just days after the government lifted flight orders affecting 40 of the busiest airports. Despite the end of the federal shutdown, uncertainty remains regarding how quickly routine flights can fully resume.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced late Wednesday that airlines will only need to implement flight cuts of up to 6% at most affected airports, a reduction from prior cuts that were expected to reach higher percentages. This adjustment comes after improvements in air traffic controller staffing, which had been a significant issue during the shutdown.

Air traffic controllers had struggled with staffing shortages during the shutdown, which led to a spike in absences due to employees going without pay. The resulting safety concerns prompted the FAA to impose flight cuts. Airlines have primarily focused these cuts on smaller regional routes to protect main hubs.

FAA and Transportation Department officials have not provided an exact timeline for when the cut orders will be completely lifted. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy indicated that the FAA would monitor safety data closely before making decisions.

Even though airlines are preparing for a return to normalcy within a few days, experts caution that issues stemming from the shutdown might impact holiday travel. During Thanksgiving, the expectation is for record passenger numbers, making a swift recovery crucial.

American Airlines' leadership has communicated to employees that recent stabilization in controller staffing is promising, although further cuts may be necessary until FAA directives are lifted.

In conclusion, while airlines aim to welcome millions of passengers during the upcoming Thanksgiving travel period, lingering disruptions from the recent shutdown could pose challenges ahead.