The 10% reduction in capacity at 40 high‑traffic US airports (see AVIONEWS and related links) is an extreme measure intended to preserve aviation safety, but it inevitably results in a deterioration of the travel experience. Below is a detailed look at what is expected from tomorrow, 7 November 2025:

1. Mass cancellations and delays

- Cancellation of air connections: the 10% cut means that thousands of flights —estimated between 3,500 and 4,000 per day once fully implemented— will have to be removed from airlines' schedules. Passengers will therefore be highly likely to have their flights canceled, especially at the most congested airports and on the busiest routes.

- Prolonged delays: even flights that remain scheduled will be subject to significant delays. This stems from the root problem —namely the shortage and fatigue of air traffic controllers— which already causes slowdowns and congestion in the US air transport system. The reduction imposed by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), the US civil aviation regulator, aims to limit these delays, but overall pressure on the air system remains high, resulting in ground delays (Ground Delay) that can extend for hours.

2. Rebooking difficulties and congestion

- Reduced capacity: with fewer flights available, passengers with canceled connections will find it harder to obtain alternative seats. Demand will exceed supply, making subsequent flights full and costly.

- Queues and stress at the airport: the staffing crisis does not only concern air traffic controllers, but in some cases also involves Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel, who conduct security screening. If TSA agents are absent due to missed pay, passengers should expect significantly longer lines at security checkpoints, increasing stress at the airport.

3. Impact on travellers with planned connections

- Risk of missing connections: delays to departing flights will drastically increase the risk for travelers of missing connections at their transfer airports, triggering a cascading effect that can prolong the journey by a day or more.

- Cost and uncertainty: travellers will face unexpected expenses for accommodation, meals and ground transport in the event of cancellations or overnight delays.

In summary, the FAA's measure, while necessary to maintain safety, translates for travelers into a period of operational instability, uncertainty and prolonged disruption until the political shutdown crisis is resolved. It will therefore be advisable to always check the status of your flight directly with the airline before travelling to the airport.

2) The End