Airlines Slash Flights in Response to FAA Directive Amid Air Traffic Control Shortages
Major U.S. airlines, including Delta Air Lines and American Airlines, have begun reducing flight schedules at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports in compliance with a new Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) directive. The move, which started on November 7, 2025, is a direct response to ongoing air traffic control staffing shortages linked to the federal government shutdown.
Under the FAA’s emergency order, airlines are required to cut their daily domestic operations by 10% at these high-impact airports by November 14. The reductions are focused on the busiest travel hours—between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. local time—and are intended to ensure the safety and reliability of the national airspace system during a period of diminished air traffic control resources.
Delta Air Lines Adjusts Schedules
Delta Air Lines confirmed that it has already completed all planned FAA-directed flight cancellations for November 7 through 9. The airline emphasized its commitment to minimizing customer impact, offering additional flexibility for travelers affected by the changes. Passengers scheduled to travel to, from, or through impacted airports can change, cancel, or refund their flights—including Delta Main Basic fares—without penalty during this period.
Delta stated that it expects to operate the vast majority of its flights as scheduled, including all long-haul international services. The company is working to provide as much advance notice as possible to customers about any changes and has apologized for any inconvenience caused by the adjustments.
American Airlines Reduces Schedules
American Airlines has also responded to the FAA directive, reducing its flight schedules by 4% at the affected airports from Friday through Monday. This amounts to approximately 220 flights being cut over the four-day period. The airline is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to adjust its operations as necessary to comply with FAA requirements.
FAA Directive Details
The FAA’s emergency order, published on November 6, 2025, mandates that all Part 121 and commuter or scheduled 135 air carriers operating at the listed high-impact airports must achieve a 10% reduction in total daily scheduled domestic operations by November 14. The reductions are calculated by marketing code, with no single operating certificate facing more than a 15% cut to prevent disproportionate impacts on regional routes.
The baseline for these reductions is the total number of currently scheduled operations. The FAA has stated that these measures are temporary and are designed to address emergency air safety needs without causing long-term adverse impacts.
Impact on Travelers
Travelers are advised to check their flight status through airline websites or mobile apps before heading to the airport. Airlines are urging passengers to allow extra time for travel and to monitor communications for any updates or changes to their itineraries.
While most major carriers are working to minimize disruptions, some delays and cancellations are expected, particularly during peak travel hours. The FAA and airlines are coordinating closely to ensure that safety remains the top priority throughout this period of reduced operations.
Looking Ahead
The situation remains fluid, with airlines and regulators continuing to assess the impact of air traffic control staffing shortages. The FAA has indicated that these measures are temporary and will be reevaluated as staffing levels improve. In the meantime, travelers are encouraged to stay informed and flexible as the industry works to maintain safe and reliable air travel.
For the latest updates, travelers should consult their airline’s official website or contact customer service directly.