In a sweeping move as the federal government shutdown grinds on, U.S. airlines are preparing for a surge in cancelled flights after the FAA ordered carriers to cut back operations at the nation’s busiest airports. With air-traffic-controller staffing at critical lows and passenger volumes still high, the industry is bracing for major disruptions that may carry on well even after a funding deal is reached.
Flight Cuts Rising Amid Staffing Crisis
Airlines have been instructed to reduce scheduled departures at roughly 40 of the busiest airports, increasing the expected cancellation rate from about 4 % to 6 % on Tuesday, with forecasts rising toward 10 % by Friday.
More than 2,100 flights were cancelled on Monday, and Sunday alone saw nearly 3,000 flights scrubbed.
Several major hubs are already reporting cancellation rates of over 10 %, while some West Coast airports are faring somewhat better.
Wider Impacts: Delays, Operational Chaos & Traveler Headaches
Because aircraft and crew are out of their usual sync, airlines expect ripple effects even after the FAA lifts its order. According to industry analysts, planes not in their scheduled locations and crews displaced from normal rotations mean recovery may take time.
Meanwhile, thousands of air-traffic controllers — working without pay amid the shutdown — are leading to staffing shortfalls that are straining airport operations.
Major carriers report massive delay minutes and disrupted travel plans for hundreds of thousands of passengers.
What Travellers Should Know & How to Prepare
For passengers planning flights in the coming days: expect more cancellations and delays, especially at east-coast and large hubs. Some airports have already acknowledged an “unprecedented situation.”
Alternatives such as trains or long-haul bus / car routes are becoming more common as travelers seek to avoid airport turmoil.
If your itinerary is flexible, consider postponing non-urgent trips or booking flights through airports reporting lower cancellation percentages. Also stay alert to airline notifications and consider travel insurance or flexible change policies.
