Hundreds of Flights Are Canceled Across the U.S.-What to Know Before You Head to the Airport

"According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, operations will be cut by 4 percent starting today and will scale to 10 percent by Friday, Nov. 14. Cirium, an aviation analytics company, estimates the full reduction could affect roughly 1,800 flights and 268,000 seats per day. Long-haul international flights are currently exempt from cuts, while regional flights and less-full flights face the highest cancellation risks."

"For most travelers, preemptively canceling isn't necessary. In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, airlines should have the capacity to rebook passengers. At this point, most airlines have finalized cancellations through Saturday, and you can check your flight status on your airline's website or mobile app. Many major carriers are also offering flexible rebooking policies, even for basic economy tickets."

Emergency flight reductions at 40 major U.S. airports begin due to strain from nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers working without pay during the 38-day government shutdown. The Department of Transportation orders operations cut 4 percent starting today and scaled to 10 percent by Nov. 14, potentially eliminating about 1,800 flights and 268,000 seats daily according to Cirium. Long-haul international flights are exempt; regional and lightly booked flights face the highest cancellation risk. Most travelers need not cancel preemptively because airlines should rebook passengers and many carriers offer flexible rebooking, including for basic economy fares. Travelers are advised to check statuses and consider backup routes.

Read at Travel + Leisure