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Thanksgiving Travel: 6% Flight Cuts Amid Controller Shortage

11/14/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Department of Transportation will keep reductions at 6% of flights at 40 major airports until safety metrics improve.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy noted a decrease in air traffic controller absences, but staffing remains a concern, with 15–20 controllers retiring daily.
As Thanksgiving approaches, experts warn of ongoing delays and cancellations, particularly at major hubs.
Airlines are offering waivers for affected flights, but travelers should prepare for potential disruptions.

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Story summary

The Department of Transportation will keep reductions at 6% of flights at 40 major airports until safety metrics improve.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy noted a decrease in air traffic controller absences, but staffing remains a concern, with 15–20 controllers retiring daily.
As Thanksgiving approaches, experts warn of ongoing delays and cancellations, particularly at major hubs.
Airlines are offering waivers for affected flights, but travelers should prepare for potential disruptions.