FAA Implements Temporary 10% Flight Reduction at 40 Major US Airports Amidst Shutdown
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated a temporary 10% reduction in flights at 40 major US airports, effective from November 7, 2025. This decision is a result of air traffic controller shortages triggered by the ongoing government shutdown.
The cuts, which initially started at 4% on Friday, are set to escalate to 10% by November 14 if the shutdown persists. Major airlines have been significantly affected, with American Airlines canceling 220 flights daily, Delta scratching 170 flights, and Southwest canceling 120 flights.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced this unprecedented move to ensure safety as controllers continue to work without pay for over a month. The financial strain has led to many calling out sick.
The reductions have impacted major hubs including Dallas-Fort Worth, Newark, Atlanta, and Chicago O’Hare. Airlines are responding by offering refunds and waiving change fees for affected passengers. On the first day alone, over 780 flights were canceled.
- American Airlines: 220 flights canceled daily
- Delta: 170 flights scratched
- Southwest: 120 flights canceled
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