Air travel across major US hubs remains disrupted as the FAA restores operations gradually, leaving airlines and passengers bracing for further delays.
Air travel across the United States continues to face widespread disruption even as the federal government resumes normal operations. A 6% reduction in flights at 40 major airports remains in effect, and officials warn that full capacity will only return once safety standards are assured and more air traffic controllers are back on duty.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is taking a deliberately cautious approach as it works to rebuild staffing levels after weeks of strained operations. He emphasized that restoring flight capacity too quickly could compromise safety, particularly in busy air corridors where staffing shortages have been most acute.
The impact on passengers has been immediate. On Thursday November 13, 2025, alone, more than 1,000 flights were canceled nationwide, while over 3,500 experienced delays, according to data from FlightAware. Several airlines told CNN they expect further interruptions in the coming hours, and they warned travelers to prepare for last-minute schedule changes, potential rerouting and longer wait times at major terminals.
Crowded concourses and overburdened customer-service desks have become increasingly common as carriers juggle reduced staffing and unpredictable scheduling conditions. Airline representatives say they are working closely with the FAA to adjust operations, but the industry faces compounding challenges: fewer available departure slots, limited personnel and tight turnaround times.
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Travelers planning trips in the coming days may encounter even more complications. Data reviewed by CNN shows that Fridays and Saturdays have consistently recorded the highest levels of staffing shortfalls throughout this period, putting additional strain on weekend travel — typically one of the busiest windows for both domestic and international flights.
Aviation analysts note that a 6% flight reduction may sound modest but can ripple across networks, especially at major hubs. Even small cuts create gaps in aircraft rotations, crew availability and gate assignments, forcing airlines to consolidate or cancel routes with little advance notice. These disruptions also affect connecting passengers, who may miss onward flights despite airlines’ attempts to rebook or reroute them.
Airports, meanwhile, are urging passengers to arrive early, stay alert for gate changes and prepare for extended waits at security checkpoints. Local airport authorities say they are adjusting staffing and crowd-management plans to help ease pressure during peak hours, but they acknowledge that the situation may remain unstable until the FAA fully restores operations.
With no firm timeline for a return to normal flight levels, officials say the priority is ensuring that every restored route operates with adequate staffing and oversight. Until then, travelers should anticipate a turbulent period for US air travel as the aviation system slowly recovers.
Africa Daily News, New York
