Thousands of U.S. Flights Delayed or Canceled Amid Record Government Shutdown

Hundreds of thousands of travelers faced flight delays and cancellations on Sunday, marking the worst disruptions since the start of the U.S. government shutdown, now in its 40th day.

• Airlines canceled over 2,800 flights and delayed more than 10,200 due to air traffic control staffing shortages.
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandated 4% daily flight reductions at 40 major airports starting Friday, set to rise to 10% by November 14.
• Staffing shortages are driven by unpaid federal workers, with 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 security screeners working without pay.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned of worsening disruptions ahead of Thanksgiving, one of the busiest travel periods:

“Many [travelers] are not going to be able to get on an airplane… if this thing doesn’t open back up.”

The Senate advanced a bill to end the shutdown late Sunday, but it still requires approval by the House and the President. Meanwhile, airlines are planning additional flight cuts:

• United Airlines: 190 flights Monday, 269 Tuesday.
• Other carriers affected include American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest Airlines.

The shutdown’s impact extends beyond travel, with economic consequences estimated between $285 million and $580 million daily. White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett said reduced travel during Thanksgiving could contribute to a negative Q4 economic growth.

Staffing shortages have worsened as controllers retire faster during the shutdown, with up to 15–20 leaving per day versus four prior to the shutdown. Reports of safety incidents and fatigue among controllers have been rising, raising concerns over air travel safety.