Airlines Prepare for Normal Operations Post-Government Shutdown

Thu Nov 13 2025 22:00:48 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As the government lifts its flight cut order, airlines express optimism for a return to normal operations. However, lingering effects from the staffing shortages during the shutdown could impact upcoming travel plans.

Airlines are hopeful to resume normal operations following the government's order lifting flight cuts at 40 busy airports. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has stated that necessary reductions in operations will remain manageable, but concerns over delayed recovery persist, particularly ahead of the Thanksgiving travel period. With improved staffing levels of air traffic controllers, industry leaders suggest that disruptions should decrease as airlines adapt to the new operational landscape.

Airlines are optimistic they can resume normal operations just a few days after the government lifts its order affecting flight schedules at 40 busy airports. The outlook follows the end of the federal shutdown; however, there's uncertainty regarding the timeline for all operations to stabilize despite the FAA's recent adjustments.

On Wednesday night, the Federal Aviation Administration announced that flight cuts would remain capped at 6%, beneficially influenced by improved staffing of air traffic controllers. Initially, the order mandated further cuts of flights; however, rising staffing levels allowed a reduction in the necessity for these measures.

The staffing situation became dire during the shutdown, as many controllers missed work due to the lack of pay, leading to an operational backlog and safety concerns. The current shortfall of thousands of controllers intensified these issues, revealing the fragile state of air transportation capacity.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized that the FAA would rely on thorough safety data before completely lifting any restrictions. Insights regarding the timing of operations returning to normal remain unclarified but expected to emerge in the following days.

Airlines have indicated resilience, aiming to bounce back within three to four days after restrictions are lifted. However, travel industry experts express doubts about lingering impacts that may affect the Thanksgiving travel season.

Despite a reported thousand flight cancellations across the country by Thursday, the Airlines for America trade group mentioned their optimistic anticipation of welcoming record numbers of passengers during the upcoming holiday travel period.

As of now, FAA officials noted that air traffic controller facilities across the country have stabilized, reducing the warning signs that pushed for initial flight cuts. Airlines like American Airlines have communicated to their staff about the progress made and the importance of being prepared for an efficient operation as peak travel approaches.

While initiatives are underway to minimize disruptions, both airlines and controllers reflect on the strain placed on individuals due to financial instability during the shutdown. Controller staffing improvements are critical in addressing upcoming travel demands effectively.