The Best (and Worst) Times to Travel This Thanksgiving
Beat the holiday rush with smart planning and timing. Thanksgiving travel in 2025 brings unique challenges, as a prolonged government shutdown has stretched past eight weeks, straining the systems that keep air travel running smoothly.
Impact of the Government Shutdown
Thousands of air traffic controllers and TSA agents continue working without pay, leading to increased absenteeism and staffing shortages. The Federal Aviation Administration has already implemented a 10% reduction in air traffic across 40 major airports to maintain safety standards.
“Delays and cancellations beget delays and cancellations,” said aviation analyst William J.
Experts warn that if the shutdown continues into the holiday period, the effects could intensify, turning normal travel bottlenecks into full-blown airport disruptions.
What Travelers Can Expect
- Longer security lines and slower movement through terminals
- Potential for widespread flight delays and cancellations
- Reduced air traffic capacity across major hubs
Timing Is Everything
To minimize stress, travelers are advised to plan ahead, arrive early, and remain flexible. This year’s Thanksgiving travel season is shaping up to test even the most seasoned flyers.
Author’s summary: The ongoing government shutdown threatens to turn Thanksgiving travel into a test of patience, with reduced air traffic and mounting delays across U.S. airports.