Flight cancellations and delays worsen as government shutdown drags on

Flight Cancellations and Delays Worsen Amid Government Shutdown

Air travel in the United States is facing severe disruptions due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. Airlines canceled over 1,500 flights on Saturday and more than 2,900 on Sunday following an FAA order to reduce air traffic. This measure responded to air traffic controllers, who have gone unpaid for nearly a month, increasingly refusing to report to work.

By early Monday, airlines had canceled nearly 1,600 flights scheduled for the day and almost 1,000 for Tuesday. Major airports such as Newark, Orlando, Chicago, and Detroit have experienced departure delays exceeding one hour, with delays continuing to grow, according to FlightAware data.

Senate Actions and Ongoing Challenges

The Senate made a preliminary move to end the shutdown on Sunday, but final approval may take several days. Experts warn that even after the government reopens, restoring normal flight operations will require additional time.

Impact on Air Traffic Controllers

This marks the second pay period during which air traffic controllers have not received compensation. Nick Daniels, head of the air traffic controllers union, plans to hold a press conference Monday morning to discuss the ongoing effects of the shutdown on their workforce.

"This is the second pay period that air traffic controllers have not received any pay for their work."

Travelers should prepare for extended delays and cancellations as the situation develops.

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"The pain Americans are facing at airports across the country is expected to get worse this week if Congress is unable to reach a deal to reopen the federal government."

Author's summary: The ongoing government shutdown has caused major flight cancellations and delays nationwide, worsening as unpaid air traffic controllers halt work amid stalled congressional negotiations.

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Newsday Newsday — 2025-11-10

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