Federal Aviation Administration Rescinds Emergency Flight Restrictions

Monday, 17 November 2025, 02:48

Federal Aviation Administration lifts flight restrictions affecting 40 major U.S. airports. Airlines can resume regular operations starting 6 a.m. EST on Monday. This decision follows safety concerns during the government's longest shutdown.

Cbsnews — Federal Aviation Administration Rescinds Emergency Flight Restrictions

Federal Aviation Administration Rescinds Flight Limitations

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced it is lifting all flight restrictions previously imposed on 40 major U.S. airports during the recent government shutdown, which lasted a record 43 days. The FAA's emergency order, focused on safety due to staffing shortages at air traffic control facilities, had led to significant flight cuts. However, as of Monday at 6 a.m. EST, airlines are permitted to fully restore their standard schedules.

Timeline of the Restriction

Order began on Nov. 7 due to safety concerns
Flight reductions increased from an initial 4% to 6%
Restrictions reduced to 3% as staffing improved

Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford emphasized that the decision to lift the order was based on recommendations from a safety team, reflecting a stabilization in air traffic controller staffing levels. Data indicates that this weekend saw the lowest number of flight cancellations since the restrictions took effect, with less than 1% of flights affected.

This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.