FAA Lifts Flight Restrictions Following Extended Government Shutdown

Mon Nov 17 2025 06:34:52 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Federal Aviation Administration announces the end of flight restrictions affecting 40 major airports, allowing airlines to resume normal operations starting Monday morning.

In a significant move, the FAA has lifted all restrictions imposed during the lengthy government shutdown, enabling airlines to return to their standard flight schedules. After a detailed safety review, the agency deemed that improvements in air traffic controller staffing warranted this decision. The restrictions had led to thousands of flight cancellations but are now rolled back, bringing hope for a smoother travel experience ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced the lifting of all flight restrictions imposed at 40 major airports due to the prolonged government shutdown. Airlines are set to resume regular operations starting at 6 a.m. EST on Monday.

This announcement was made jointly by Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, following an unprecedented traffic order motivated by safety concerns stemming from staffing shortages at air traffic control facilities. The restrictions, in place since November 7, adversely affected thousands of flights across the nation.

Major airports in cities like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta were particularly impacted. Initially, the FAA reduced flights by up to 10%, later adjusting restrictions as controller staffing levels improved post the November 12 end of the 43-day government shutdown.

The FAA's decision to lift these restrictions indicates a reassessment of safety trends and staffing conditions within the agency. Notably, air traffic controllers, who continued to work without pay during the shutdown, faced serious operational pressures as cancellations peaked during the disruption.

As the Thanksgiving travel period approaches, airline leaders express optimism for recovery and smoother operations now that the restrictions are removed.

The FAA has also indicated that it is reviewing potential enforcement options concerning reports of non-compliance by airlines during the emergency order period.