Overview
- The federal government has reopened after a 43‑day shutdown, and the FAA reduced mandated flight cuts to 3% through the weekend while it monitors safety metrics.
- System performance improved markedly on Nov. 16 with fewer than 120 U.S. cancellations and about 2,000 delays by mid‑afternoon, according to FlightAware.
- Boston Logan showed tangible recovery with 10 cancellations and 68 delays Sunday after the reduced caps took effect, far below recent weeks.
- Transportation officials pledged rapid back pay for controllers—70% within 24–48 hours of reopening—and the administration announced $10,000 bonuses for some controllers and TSA officers.
- Airlines and officials say Thanksgiving could be close to normal if staffing trends hold, though experts note a persistent controller shortage and softer holiday bookings that may lighten airport crowds.