Delta Shares Update on FAA Air Travel Reduction, Offers Waiver for Changes and Cancellations

With the current government shutdown dragging on, the FAA announced yesterday a 10% reduction in flying across 40 airports that’s set to start tomorrow, November 7, 2025.

Now, Delta has shared what its customers can expect if and when this reduction in flying goes into effect. Here’s what you need to know.

What To Expect if You’re Flying Delta Soon

Delta shared an update on its website regarding the imminent reduction in air travel that’s scheduled to be implemented tomorrow, November 7.

The airline states that it’s working to minimize disruptions for passengers while maintaining the highest safety standards. More specifically, the airline “expects to operate the vast majority of [its] flights as scheduled.” Also of note is that Delta says international flights will not be affected at all by the FAA-mandated traffic reduction.

Further, the Atlanta-based carrier has issued a waiver for travelers who have tickets booked during this period. This means that flyers can change or cancel their flights without incurring a penalty. Cancelled tickets will receive a full refund.

About the FAA-Mandated Reduction in Air Traffic

The FAA announced that a 10% reduction in air traffic nationwide is necessary to mitigate the impact of reduced and unpaid staffing resulting from the ongoing government shutdown, which began on October 1.

Air Traffic controllers are considered essential workers by the government and, as a result, have been working throughout the shutdown — without pay.

The traffic reductions will be ramped up over the next few days, starting with a 4% reduction tomorrow; a 5% reduction on Saturday, November 8; a 6% reduction on Sunday, November 9; and reaching the full 10% next week.

The cuts in flying will be spread across 40 airports nationwide. You can find a full list of affected airports and their status here.

Tips for Flying During the Shutdown

Until the government reopens, it’s reasonable to expect that flying will become more and more of a hassle, especially considering Thanksgiving — the busiest travel period of the year — is right around the corner.

If you have upcoming air travel booked, there are a few steps you should take to ensure you have the latest information and the necessary tools to change or cancel flights if needed.

• Keep an eye on your email and airline apps for messages and travel waivers from your carrier.
• Give yourself extra time at the airport and be flexible with your plans if possible.
• Utilize CLEAR and TSA PreCheck if available, especially Touchless ID, to expedite the security process.
• Use your points and miles to book a backup flight in case your original reservation goes wrong.
• Consider alternative transportation options, such as buses, trains, or driving.

Remember, Delta is offering a travel waiver, so you’ll be able to change flights without penalty or cancel them for a full refund if you choose to do so.

Final Thoughts

Delta has shared some initial information regarding what to expect if you’re flying with the carrier during the period of reduced travel that’s set to begin tomorrow, coming as a result of the government shutdown.

Stay on top of your flights on the carrier’s website or via its mobile app and know that you can change flights with no penalty or even cancel for a full refund.