Thanksgiving Travel Chaos Looms: Why More Flights Could Be Grounded

Air Travel Disruptions - Approximately 10,000 flights have been cancelled or delayed, ranking this day as the 11th worst day for cancellations in 2025 [1] - Staffing shortages for air traffic controllers are a major contributing factor to the disruptions [2] - A winter storm in Chicago, a major US airport hub, is exacerbating the situation [2] - Decades of hiring shortfalls at airports, particularly in Newark and other New York airports, are adding to the problems [2] Potential Impact of Government Shutdown - The situation is expected to worsen if the government shutdown continues, especially with the Thanksgiving holiday approaching [3] - The US Transportation Secretary anticipates air travel to come to a virtual standstill during Thanksgiving if the shutdown persists [4] - Air traffic controllers may be less likely to work without paychecks during the holiday season [4] - Airlines may be required to cut flights by 20% if the shutdown extends past November 14th [5] - The busiest days and months for US airlines are approaching [5]