FAA is reducing flights at 40 U.S. airports. Here's how Canadian travel will be affected

FAA Reduces Flights at 40 U.S. Airports Amid Government Shutdown

Canadian travellers heading to the United States may experience flight cancellations and delays due to the pressures caused by the ongoing U.S. federal government shutdown on the country’s aviation system.

Impact on Canadian Travellers

Although international flights are exempt from the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) directive to cut air traffic by 10% at 40 of the busiest U.S. airports, Canadian passengers could still face disruptions as the shutdown causes ripple effects throughout the network.

FAA Flight Reduction Plan

The FAA announced on Wednesday that it will reduce flights by 10% at 40 major airports, including New York City and Chicago.
Reductions begin at 4% on Friday and will increase to 10% by November 10 local time.
The cuts apply to all commercial airlines.

Reason for Flight Reductions

The FAA stated that the flight reductions are essential to maintain safety, as unpaid air traffic controllers are showing signs of strain during the shutdown, now the longest in U.S. history at 37 days and counting.

"Due to a lapse in funding, the FAA is not responding to routine media inquiries."

Response Status

Efforts by CBC News to obtain additional information from the FAA and the U.S. Department of Transportation have so far been unsuccessful.

Airports Affected

The flight reductions will affect major hubs such as airports in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, along with other busy locations across the U.S.

CBC — 2025-11-07