The Federal Aviation Administration introduced on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, that it’ll cut back scheduled flight capability by 10 % at roughly 40 main U.S. airports starting Friday morning, November 7, 2025, because the company strikes to ease mounting strain on the nation’s air-traffic management system.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford mentioned the measure is proactive, geared toward sustaining security amid staffing shortages brought on by the continuing federal authorities shutdown.
“Our priority is to manage workload across the system and ensure safe operations,” Bedford mentioned.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy mentioned absenteeism amongst controllers at some main airports has reached 20 to 40 %, highlighting the necessity for quick motion.
Officials emphasised that the capability discount is preventative, not reactive, and designed to forestall widespread operational disruptions.
The cuts come because the federal authorities shutdown, which started October 1, 2025, continues into its sixth week.
Tens of 1000’s of air-traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration officers have been working with out pay, contributing to staffing gaps and elevated operational pressure.
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The FAA mentioned the transfer is critical to scale back system strain whereas sustaining security requirements.
What Travellers Should Know
• High-volume airports throughout the U.S. will probably be affected, although a full checklist has not been launched.
• Passengers ought to anticipate delays and doable cancellations.
• Travellers are suggested to verify flight standing forward of journey, arrive early, and permit flexibility of their schedules.
Bedford mentioned the FAA will restore regular flight schedules as soon as staffing ranges enhance and operational pressures ease.
