Airlines Cancel Flights Amid FAA Staffing Shortages Linked to Government Shutdown

Air travelers across the United States are facing new disruptions today as airlines cancel approximately 4% of scheduled flights at certain airports. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) says the cuts are necessary due to staffing shortages among air traffic controllers, a direct result of the ongoing government shutdown. Officials warn that reductions could climb as high as 10% in the coming days if the shutdown continues.

Experts advise travelers departing within the next 10 days to keep a close eye on airline mobile apps and websites for real-time updates. Industry analysts say airlines are likely to prioritize their main hub-to-hub routes to keep the broader system moving, which means regional or connecting flights are more vulnerable to cancellations.

For those traveling to or from smaller cities, experts suggest considering alternate plans—such as driving to a larger airport or purchasing a refundable backup ticket. Several major airlines have announced flexible travel policies, allowing passengers to change or rebook flights without additional fees.

Travel advisors also recommend booking directly with airlines, rather than through third-party platforms, to simplify changes if schedules shift. In addition, passengers are urged to avoid layovers when possible to reduce the risk of missed connections.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has cautioned that, if the shutdown persists, travelers could experience a ripple effect into the busy Thanksgiving travel period. “We hope that’s not the case,” he said, “but people should be prepared for the possibility.”

Locally, Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) issued a statement Thursday saying there are “no impacts to PSP operations” at this time. The airport noted it is in close communication with federal and airline partners and will keep travelers informed of any changes. Passengers can monitor PSP’s official website for live flight status updates.

As of this morning, the only reported cancellation at Palm Springs International Airport was a flight arriving from Phoenix. Airport officials continue to encourage travelers to check flight information frequently and confirm details directly with their airlines before heading to the airport.