Amid the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated flight reductions across 40 of the nation’s busiest airports. Airports affected by government shutdown this directive, aimed at managing the strain caused by air traffic controller staffing shortages, has led to more than 700 flight cancellations in a single day, disrupting travel nationwide.
The phased flight cuts started with a 4% reduction and are scheduled to increase gradually to 10% by November 14. Major airports hit include Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL), New York’s John F. Kennedy (JFK), Newark Liberty (EWR), LaGuardia (LGA), Boston Logan (BOS), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Los Angeles International (LAX), and San Francisco International (SFO).
HEADS UP, TRAVELERS Major delays are hitting airports nationwide as the government shutdown forces the FAA to cut flights.
Reagan, Dulles, and BWI are all impacted — with hundreds of flights slashed.
Experts with @Flighty say: track your flight early. @7NewsDC pic.twitter.com/IniW2ro5PD— John Gonzalez (@John7News) November 7, 2025
Airlines have scrambled to adjust schedules and prioritize maintaining essential routes, focusing mostly on regional and high-frequency markets while minimizing impacts on international and long-haul flights. Passengers impacted by cancellations have been offered alternative flights and waived change fees, but travel experts emphasize flexibility and checking airline notifications frequently.
The Department of Transportation and FAA underline that these reductions are precautionary to prevent safety risks as controllers continue working without pay and often under mandatory overtime. Travelers are advised to arrive early, monitor schedules, and verify travel insurance policies, as cancellation policies relating to the shutdown vary by airline.
The shutdown’s ripple effects extend beyond flight disruptions, influencing rental car demand and adding to holiday travel uncertainty. As the situation evolves, ongoing updates from airlines and aviation authorities remain crucial for informed travel planning.