FAA Lifts Order for Airline Flight Reductions
After the government shutdown led to air traffic control staffing shortages, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has lifted its emergency order that required U. S. airlines to cut up to 10% of flights. This decision was announced on Sunday, November 16th, reflecting the decrease in staffing concerns and allowing for a return to normal operations.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated, “Today’s decision to rescind the order reflects the steady decline in staffing concerns across the National Airspace System (NAS) and allows us to return to normal operations. I am grateful for the hard work of the FAA safety and operations teams and for their focus on the safety of the traveling public.
As the FAA began lifting flight restrictions leading into the weekend, airlines were able to resume regular operations, with low cancellation rates. According to Mike Arnot, a spokesperson for aviation data analytics company Cirium, “The U. S. airline industry has enjoyed a return to normal operations since Friday. I would anticipate they will return to normalcy today, if they hadn’t already this weekend. Cancellations are very low – lower than normal – and on-time performance is high.
As of Monday, November 17th at 10:50 a. m. ET, FlightAware reported only 42 cancelled flights nationwide.
No More Flight Reductions
With the lifting of the FAA’s emergency order, airlines have largely resumed normal operations and are no longer restricting their schedules. This means that there should be minimal disruptions for travelers.
End of Travel Waivers
Major U. S. airlines have also ended their travel waivers that were issued during the disruption. As normal operations resume, these waivers are no longer necessary.
Thanksgiving Travel Plans
With the busy holiday travel season approaching, many are wondering if the previous flight restrictions will affect their Thanksgiving plans. According to Arnot, “The U. S. traveling public should feel confident in their Thanksgiving travel plans. My family and I are planning to fly on the Wednesday and Sunday of Thanksgiving, and expect busy airports but an orderly travel season.
However, it is always important to be prepared for possible disruptions, especially during peak travel times. The weather can also play a role in flight delays and cancellations, so it is important to stay informed and plan accordingly.
In conclusion, the FAA has lifted its order for airlines to reduce flights and normal operations have resumed. Travel waivers have ended and Thanksgiving travel plans should not be affected, but it is still important to be prepared for any potential disruptions.