FAA Shutdown Order Looms: Airlines Scramble to Cancel Flights

Airlines scrambled to adjust their schedules and began canceling flights Thursday in anticipation of the FAA's official order, while travelers with plans for the weekend and beyond waited nervously to learn if their flights would be affected. "We're doing everything we can to minimize disruptions, but it's a challenging situation," said a spokesperson for American Airlines. "We urge passengers to check their flight status regularly and consider alternative travel arrangements if necessary." The FAA's decision to cut flights is a result of the ongoing government shutdown, which has left the agency without sufficient funding to operate at full capacity. Air traffic controllers, who are essential to the safe operation of commercial air travel, have been working without pay for weeks, and the FAA has warned of a "tipping point" if the shutdown continues. "We're at a critical juncture, and we need Congress to act quickly to resolve this situation," said a spokesperson for the National Air Traffic Controllers Association. The 40 airports selected by the FAA for flight reductions are a mix of major hubs and smaller regional airports. In some cases, the FAA has reduced the number of flights allowed at a given airport, while in others, the agency has suspended all commercial air traffic. The ripple effects of the FAA's order are expected to be felt across the country, with smaller airports and rural communities potentially bearing the brunt of the disruptions. As the government shutdown enters its third week, lawmakers are under increasing pressure to reach a deal to fund the FAA and other affected agencies. "We're working around the clock to find a solution, but it's a complex issue," said a spokesperson for the Senate Appropriations Committee. "We urge Congress to come together and pass a bipartisan bill to end this shutdown and get our nation's air traffic control system back on track." The FAA's order is set to take effect at 1:20 AM ET on Friday, November 7, 2025, and will remain in place until further notice. Travelers are advised to check their flight status regularly and consider alternative travel arrangements if necessary. The situation is fluid, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.