Over 7,700 Flights Delayed, Nearly 2,300 Canceled Across U.S. Amid Government Shutdown

More than 7,700 flights were delayed and almost 2,300 were canceled across the United States today, November 9, 2025, as the ongoing federal government shutdown increasingly disrupts air travel ahead of the busy Thanksgiving holiday.

Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport experienced the highest number of cancellations, with 192 flights canceled and 323 delayed as of shortly before 5 p.m. EST. Significant disruptions also impacted major airports in New York City, including LaGuardia (299 delays, 56% of flights), Newark (236 delays, 40% of flights), and John F. Kennedy (204 delays, 31% of flights). Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport reported over 500 delays, while Midway saw 81. Other affected hubs included Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (244 delays, 52% of flights) and Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. (134 delays, 30% of flights).

The disruptions stem from reduced air traffic capacity implemented by the Federal Aviation Administration due to the shutdown, forcing air traffic controllers to work without pay. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned yesterday on CNN’s State of the Union that these delays are “only going to get worse” in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, following a record 81 staffing triggers reported by the federal government. The FAA began reducing traffic by 4% on Friday, with further reductions scheduled through November 14.

These travel disruptions could significantly impact holiday travel plans for millions of Americans, potentially leading to increased costs and stress for passengers. Air traffic controllers are scheduled to miss their second paycheck on Tuesday, adding to the pressure on the system. Officials indicate the situation will remain fluid until a resolution to the government shutdown is reached; you can find more information about the shutdown here.