Archive · 12 Nov 2025
US Flight Disruptions Persist Amid Government Shutdown
The people who help airplanes fly safely, called air traffic controllers, have not been paid because the government is shut down.
This has caused many controllers to miss work, meaning there aren't enough people to manage air traffic.
Because of this, the FAA has ordered airlines to cancel some flights at busy airports.
More flights might be cancelled if the shutdown continues.
The government is close to reopening, and officials hope that things will return to normal soon after.
The President offered special payments to controllers who kept working and suggested penalties for those who didn't.
Over 1,700 flights cancelled and over 14,000 delayed as of Tuesday.
FAA increased mandated flight cuts to 6% at 40 major airports due to reduced air traffic control staff.
Flight cut percentages are expected to increase if the government shutdown continues.
Absenteeism has risen among FAA and TSA employees working without pay for 42 days.
Transportation Secretary urged Congress to pass a spending bill to end the shutdown and restore normal air travel.
- Who
- US airlines, air travellers, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), air traffic controllers, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, President Donald Trump, Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
- What
- Continued flight cancellations and delays due to air traffic control staffing shortages and FAA-mandated flight cuts during a government shutdown.
- When
- Ongoing, with Senate vote on Monday and further FAA action on Tuesday; House vote expected Wednesday. Shutdown has lasted 42 days.
- Where
- Across the United States, impacting 40 major airports including Chicago O’Hare, New York JFK and LaGuardia, Atlanta, Washington, and Dallas-Fort Worth.
- Why
- Government shutdown leading to reduced staffing at air traffic control centers, causing operational strain and necessitating flight reductions to ensure safety.
President Trump
Air Traffic Controllers Working Without Pay
Pay and Penalties
President Trump
President Trump suggested bonuses for controllers who worked and warned that those who skipped shifts could face penalties.
Air Traffic Controllers Working Without Pay
Absenteeism has increased among FAA and TSA employees as they have worked without pay for an extended period.
- Flight Cancellations
- Over 9,000 flights cancelled since FAA began ordering cuts.
- Flight Delays
- Over 14,000 flights delayed.
- FAA Mandated Flight Cuts
- Increased to 6% at 40 major airports on Tuesday, planned to rise to 8% Thursday and 10% Friday if shutdown continues.
- Shutdown Duration
- 42 days.
- Key Affected Airports
- Chicago O’Hare, New York JFK and LaGuardia, Atlanta, Washington, Dallas-Fort Worth.
