The Federal Aviation Administration announced on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, that it will reduce scheduled flight capacity by 10 percent at roughly 40 major U.S. airports beginning Friday morning, November 7, 2025, as the agency moves to ease mounting pressure on the nation’s air-traffic control system.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said the measure is proactive, aimed at maintaining safety amid staffing shortages caused by the ongoing federal government shutdown.
“Our priority is to manage workload across the system and ensure safe operations,” Bedford said.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said absenteeism among controllers at some major airports has reached 20 to 40 percent, highlighting the need for immediate action.
Officials emphasized that the capacity reduction is preventative, not reactive, and designed to prevent widespread operational disruptions.
The cuts come as the federal government shutdown, which began October 1, 2025, continues into its sixth week.
Tens of thousands of air-traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration officers have been working without pay, contributing to staffing gaps and increased operational strain.
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The FAA said the move is necessary to reduce system pressure while maintaining safety standards.
What Travellers Should Know
• High-volume airports across the U.S. will be affected, though a full list has not been released.
• Passengers should anticipate delays and possible cancellations.
• Travellers are advised to check flight status ahead of travel, arrive early, and allow flexibility in their schedules.
Bedford said the FAA will restore normal flight schedules once staffing levels improve and operational pressures ease.