Airlines Project Quick Recovery Following FAA Flight Cut Order

Thu Nov 13 2025 21:54:42 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Following a government shutdown, airlines are optimistic about resuming normal operations as the FAA has eased flight cut regulations. With improved staffing, airlines expect a smooth return to usual flight schedules in the coming days.

Airlines are hopeful for a quick return to normal operations after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) relaxed its flight cut order due to improved air traffic controller staffing. Even with challenges representing previous hurdles, the industry is gearing up for a busy Thanksgiving travel period with expectations of record passenger numbers. The FAA has reported no current staffing warnings, indicating a path towards recovery for air travel across the US.

Airlines are optimistic they can resume normal operations just a few days after the government lifts its order to cut some flights at 40 busy airports. This follows the easing of a federal shutdown, although the timeline for when operations will return to normal remains unclear.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that airlines will not have to cut over 6% of flights at these airports due to a significant improvement in air traffic controller staffing. Initially, the cuts were set to escalate to 10% by Friday, but the FAA has recognized improved staffing levels.

During the shutdown, many air traffic controllers missed work while going without pay, leading to serious understaffing concerns. Even a small number of absences proved problematic from a safety perspective, prompting intervention.

While there are no updates from FAA officials regarding when the order will be completely lifted, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has emphasized that the decision will be based on safety data closely monitored by FAA experts.

Airlines are confident they can recover efficiently. They aim to minimize impacts on regional flights while handling expected passenger volume during the upcoming Thanksgiving travel season. Airlines expect to avail flights to a record 31 million travelers in the coming days.

Despite anticipated improvements, there are indications that challenges could extend into the holiday travel period, traditionally a busy time for the airlines. The airlines shared their optimism about bouncing back quickly, reflecting on preparedness and planning to ensure they can meet travelers' needs.