FAA Maintains 6% Flight Cuts at 40 Airports Even After
Shutdown Ends
Uncertain Timeline for Normal Operations
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that decisions on easing restrictions will be data-driven and safety-focused. The FAA is monitoring key metrics, including:
- Pilot reports on controller responsiveness
- Signs of stress among air traffic staff
- Ground incident rates
“We will only increase capacity when the data shows it’s safe,” Duffy emphasized. On November 11, around 1,900 flights were canceled; by November 12 afternoon, the number dropped to 1,300 — a positive but insufficient trend for immediate rollback.
Why Flight Reductions Were Implemented
The FAA introduced progressive cuts — starting at 4% on November 8, rising to 6% on November 11 — to reduce pressure on overworked controllers working without pay during the shutdown.
Without the shutdown resolution, cuts were set to reach 10% by Friday. Thanks to the reopening agreement and a sharp drop in controller absences, the FAA has frozen reductions at 6% until safety data improves.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford called this “unprecedented in 35 years of aviation history.”
Controller Pay and Staffing Crisis
Air traffic controllers worked without pay for 42 days, worsening an existing 2,000-person shortage. Many called out, forcing operational cutbacks.
Duffy assured that up to 75% of back pay will be disbursed within 48 hours of government reopening. The FAA aims to hire 9,000 new controllers by 2028 to address decades-long understaffing.
Economic Fallout from Travel Chaos
The U.S. Travel Association warned Congress that a prolonged shutdown could cost the travel economy $1 billion per week. Daily losses are estimated between $285 million and $580 million.
Economic adviser Kevin Hassett cautioned that reduced Thanksgiving travel could push the U.S. into a negative GDP quarter in Q4 2025.
Travel Tips for Affected Passengers
If you’re flying soon, especially to one of the 40 impacted airports:
- Check FAA advisories in real time for delays and ground stops
- Contact your airline early — most are rebooking canceled flights for free
- Major carriers (United, Delta, American) are offering full refunds — even on non-refundable tickets — if you choose not to travel
- You’re entitled to refunds for unused bag fees, seat selections, and add-ons
Plan alternatives and build extra time into your schedule, advises the National Business Aviation Association.
