Hundreds of Flight Delays Hit Orlando as FAA Cuts Take Effect
Controller shortages during the shutdown have prompted the FAA to trim schedules to protect safety.
Overview
- By early afternoon on November 10, Orlando International reported roughly 238 delays and 56 cancellations, reflecting a difficult travel day.
- The FAA is currently reducing domestic flights by about 4% at 40 major U.S. airports, with phased cuts expected to reach around 10% by mid‑November.
- Officials have warned that reductions could rise to 15–20% if the shutdown persists, and a CNN report cited Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy predicting service could be reduced to a trickle ahead of the holidays.
- Local reporting indicates Orlando could see an estimated 100 cancellations per day this week as controller shortages strain operations.
- MCO urges travelers to check directly with airlines, follow the 3‑2‑1 timing guideline, and use airline, MyTSA, and MCO apps, while travel experts recommend booking earlier flights and having a backup plan.