The U.S. Government Shutdown May Be Over, But Flight Disruptions Continue-Here's What Travelers Need to Know

"But despite the step forward, airlines are still canceling or delaying hundreds of flights following the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) mandated capacity reductions. As of Wednesday afternoon, there were more than 1,700 delays within, into, or out of the United States and more than 1,000 cancellations, according to flight tracker FlightAware. Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) had the highest number of cancellations at more than 50 outbound flights, followed by Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Denver International Airport (DEN), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)."

""When the FAA gives airlines clearance to return to full capacity, our crews will work quickly to ramp up operations especially with Thanksgiving holiday travel beginning next week," industry trade group Airlines for America said in a statement, adding "We are grateful to the dedicated air traffic controllers and TSA officers who showed up for work despite not getting paid. Additionally, thousands of airline employees have been going the extra mile to take care of customers during these challenging days.""

"United Airlines, for example extended its travel waiver to flights through Nov. 16, 2025, that travel through major hubs like Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles, among other airports. American Airlines has similarly extended travel waivers for many airports through Nov. 15, as has Delta Air Lines and JetBlue through Nov. 16. Travelers are encouraged to check their carrier's website and app frequently for flight status updates, and re-book immediately if there is a cancellation since seat inventory may still be reduced."

The government shutdown ended when President Donald Trump signed a continuing resolution to fund the government. FAA-mandated capacity reductions remain in effect, producing more than 1,700 delays and over 1,000 cancellations as reported by FlightAware. Chicago O'Hare led cancellations, followed by Atlanta, Denver, and Newark. Airlines committed to ramping up operations once FAA clears full capacity and expressed gratitude to air traffic controllers, TSA officers, and airline staff who worked without pay. Major carriers extended travel waivers through mid-November (United through Nov. 16, 2025 for select hubs), and travelers are advised to check carrier sites and rebook if needed.

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