Airports affected by U.S. Government shutdown
Posted: 6 November 2025 | Gabriel Higgins | No comments yet
Staff shortages and operational disruptions at key US airports are causing flight delays, security challenges, and heightened concerns over passenger safety nationwide.
UPDATE: 06/11/2025
As the U.S. federal government shutdown extends into its sixth week, airports across the nation are confronting escalating operational challenges, with increased flight delays, staffing shortages and heightened concerns over aviation safety.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Sean Duffy, U.S. Transportation Secretary, have announced plans to reduce airline traffic by up to 10 per cent at 40 major U.S. airports beginning this week if the shutdown continues.
The measure, including an initial cut of around 4 per cent escalating to 10 per cent, aims to relieve pressure on air traffic controllers and prevent the national airspace system from reaching a critical safety threshold.
Meanwhile, delays continue to mount at major airports. The FAA reports that flight delays and cancellations are rising due to controller shortages and absences among security personnel.
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Airports that have been affected by the US Government shutdown over the last few months
- Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
- Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
- Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS)
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Experts are raising alarms about the broader implications of the shutdown on aviation safety. With air traffic control staffing levels compromised, the risk of miscommunication and operational errors increases. Additionally, the suspension of FAA modernisation projects and safety event analyses could have long-term consequences for the aviation infrastructure.
The U.S. Travel Association has estimated that the shutdown could cost the economy $1 billion a week, further straining the travel industry and impacting passengers nationwide.
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Related topics
Air traffic control/management (ATC/ATM), Airlines, Airport crisis management, Airport leadership, Capacity, Operational efficiency, Passenger experience and seamless travel, Regulation and Legislation, Safety, Workforce
Related airports
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Denver International Airport (DEN), Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), Nashville International Airport (BNA), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), Orlando International Airport (MCO), Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Related organisations
FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), U.S. Federal Government, U.S. Travel Association
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