FAA is reducing flights at 40 U.S. airports. Here's how Canadian travel will be affected

FAA Reduces Flights at 40 Major U.S. Airports Amid Government Shutdown

Some Canadian travelers heading to the United States will experience flight cancellations and delays as the ongoing U.S. federal government shutdown impacts the aviation system.

Impact on Canadian Travelers

Although international flights are exempt from the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) 10% air traffic reduction across 40 of the busiest U.S. airports, Canadian passengers may still face disruptions due to the chain reaction caused by the shutdown.

FAA's Flight Reduction Plan

The FAA announced on Wednesday it would decrease flights by 10% starting Friday at major hubs including New York City and Chicago.
Flight cuts will begin at 4% on Friday and gradually increase to 10% in the following days across all commercial airlines.
This measure aims to ensure flight safety as unpaid air traffic controllers show signs of fatigue after 37 days of shutdown, now the longest in U.S. history.

Official Responses

"Due to a lapse in funding, the FAA is not responding to routine media inquiries."

Attempts by CBC News to reach the FAA and the U.S. Department of Transportation for further details have not yet received replies.

Affected Airports

The reductions will affect airports in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, as well as other key hubs nationwide.

Summary

The Federal Aviation Administration’s phased flight reductions at busy U.S. airports during the prolonged government shutdown risk disrupting Canadian travelers despite international flights being exempt.

CBC — 2025-11-07