With the Thanksgiving holiday fast approaching, U.S. air travellers are facing growing uncertainty as the ongoing federal government shutdown disrupts aviation operations nationwide.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), staffing shortages have hit more than 15 air-traffic control centres, leading to widespread flight delays and cancellations. In a single day, over 10,000 flights were delayed and 3,000 cancelled, underscoring the mounting strain on the nation’s air travel system.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy cautioned that if the funding deadlock persists, “air travel during the Thanksgiving rush could reduce to a trickle.” While he assured that safety standards remain uncompromised, Duffy acknowledged that travellers should brace for significant disruptions, longer wait times, and fewer available flights.
Industry analysts report that holiday bookings have stalled, growing by only 1% year-over-year, as travellers look for alternatives. Amtrak, relatively insulated from the shutdown, has positioned itself as a reliable “shutdown-proof” option, seeing a surge in interest for long-distance routes.
For millions planning to travel this Thanksgiving, experts advise verifying flight details, monitoring airline apps for updates, setting cancellation alerts, and keeping backup travel plans ready. With no resolution to the federal impasse in sight, this year’s holiday rush could become one of the most challenging travel periods in recent memory.
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