More Than 1,400 Flights Canceled Amid U.S. Government Shutdown

Sun Nov 09 2025 23:18:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Widespread flight disruptions continue as U.S. air traffic cuts enter their second day due to ongoing government shutdown, affecting thousands of travelers nationwide.

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has resulted in over 1,400 flight cancellations and nearly 6,000 delays. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reducing air traffic capacity due to fatigue among air traffic controllers working without pay. As the situation develops, travelers face uncertain wait times and potential further disruptions ahead of the busy Thanksgiving season.

More than 1,400 flights to, from, or within the U.S. were cancelled on Saturday after airlines were instructed to cut traffic during the federal government shutdown. Nearly 6,000 flights were also delayed, as reported by flight tracker FlightAware.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced earlier this week that it would reduce air travel capacity by up to 10% at 40 of the nation's busiest airports due to fatigue among air traffic controllers working without pay during the shutdown.

Saturday marked the 39th day of the longest shutdown in history, with continuing partisan divisions in Congress over a resolution. As the shutdown stretches on, disruptions are increasingly affecting everyday Americans, particularly travelers.

American Airlines has urged Washington leaders to urgently resolve the shutdown. Newark Liberty International Airport has experienced some of the longest wait times, with average delays for arrivals exceeding four hours.

Airports most affected include Charlotte/Douglas International, Newark Liberty, and Chicago O'Hare, which saw the highest number of cancellations on Saturday.

With Thanksgiving approaching and being one of the busiest travel periods, the situation is anticipated to worsen, with the FAA indicating further capacity cuts in the coming days.

Air traffic controllers, considered essential workers, have faced increasing pressure as many have had to call out sick or seek side jobs, leading to significant safety concerns regarding air travel during the shutdown.