US flight cancellations continued to soar on Saturday as the ongoing federal government shutdown entered its 39th day, disrupting air travel nationwide. More than 1,400 flights to, from, or within the United States were cancelled, while nearly 6,000 others were delayed, according to data from FlightAware. The situation marks one of the worst travel weekends since the shutdown began on 1 October.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced earlier in the week that it would reduce air travel capacity by up to 10% at forty of the country’s busiest airports. The measure comes as air traffic controllers, still required to work without pay, reported rising fatigue and financial strain. The cuts are being phased in gradually, starting with a 4% reduction on Friday, rising to 6% by 11 November, 8% by 13 November, and the full 10% by 14 November.
FAA Reduces Flights to Maintain Safety
The FAA explained that these reductions were essential to maintain operational safety as the shutdown continues to pressure essential workers. Air traffic controllers, among the 1.4 million federal employees affected, have reportedly taken second jobs or called in sick to cope with financial hardship. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is also affected, with most of its 64,000 agents currently unpaid.
During the 2018 shutdown under President Donald Trump, about 10% of TSA agents stayed home, creating major security delays. A similar pattern is now re-emerging, with long queues and limited staff reported across multiple airports.
Airports Most Affected by the Cancellations
Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey recorded some of the longest delays, with arriving flights delayed by an average of four hours and departures by 1.5 hours, according to FAA data. Charlotte/Douglas International, Newark Liberty International, and Chicago O’Hare International topped the list for the highest number of cancellations. Departures from John F. Kennedy International, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, and LaGuardia Airport were delayed by nearly three hours, over 2.5 hours, and about one hour, respectively.
Airlines and Officials Urge a Resolution
In a statement, American Airlines called on political leaders to “reach an immediate resolution to end the shutdown.” Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers remain divided over a funding bill to reopen the government, despite ongoing bipartisan negotiations in Washington D.C.
Transportation Secretary Duffy said private jets were also restricted, with operators urged to use smaller regional airports so that overburdened controllers could prioritize commercial aviation. “That’s only fair,” he wrote on X.
Growing Impact on Travelers and the Economy
The timing could hardly be worse. With the Thanksgiving holiday approaching on 27 November, one of the busiest travel periods in the United States, passengers are bracing for longer delays and further cancellations. Industry analysts warn that the cumulative effects of flight disruptions, TSA understaffing, and federal pay freezes could significantly harm both the travel industry and consumer confidence.
As the shutdown drags into its sixth week, pressure is mounting on Congress to reach a deal. Airlines, unions, and passengers alike are calling for swift action to restore normal operations before the crucial holiday travel rush.
