Thanksgiving Travel Disruptions Escalate as US Airports Struggle Amid Shutdown
Thousands of travelers across the United States faced major disruptions on Friday as over 1,200 flights were canceled due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. The timing of the crisis, just weeks ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, has created widespread concern among passengers.
The flight reductions were implemented to ease pressure on air traffic controllers, many of whom are currently working without pay. Reports indicate that major hubs, including Atlanta, Newark, and Chicago O’Hare, have been hit hardest, while airports in Denver, Houston, and Los Angeles are also experiencing significant delays. Flight data shows that delays exceeded 6,800 on Thursday, with hundreds more flights canceled.
Leading airlines have adjusted schedules in response to the shutdown. American Airlines cut roughly 220 daily flights, Delta Air Lines reduced about 170, and Southwest Airlines canceled close to 100. Officials warn that these reductions, initially at four percent of operations, could rise to ten percent next week if Congress does not approve emergency funding.
Passengers are facing long waits and uncertainty. At Boston and Newark airports, travelers reported average delays of over two hours, while Chicago O’Hare and Washington Reagan National experienced delays exceeding an hour. Many passengers expressed frustration over the political deadlock impacting their holiday plans.
“This will become serious if it continues through Thanksgiving,” said a retiree at New York’s LaGuardia Airport. Others voiced concern about families and elderly travelers being most affected by the disruptions.
With no resolution in sight, travelers are advised to monitor flight statuses closely, arrive at airports early, and remain prepared for further delays or cancellations during the busy holiday season.
