United Updates Flyers on Shutdown Flying, Issues Waiver for Changes and Cancellations

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced this week that it would direct airlines to reduce their flying schedules in a way that results in a 10% reduction in air travel across 40 airports nationwide.

United Airlines has sent an email from its CEO to flyers explaining how it’s approaching the FAA-mandated reduction in air traffic and what to expect if you have a flight coming up.

Here’s what you should know.

What To Expect if You Have a United Flight Coming Up

The email from CEO Scott Kirby says that United will begin reducing flights as of tomorrow, November 7, 2025. The airline will continue to make “rolling updates to [its] schedule as the government shutdown continues,” but said international flying will not be impacted at all.

Additionally, United stated that flying between its hubs — Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Denver (DEN), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO), and Washington Dulles (IAD) — will not be affected.

The email reiterates that the goal of reducing traffic nationwide is to take some stress off of the entire commercial aviation sector, which is facing staffing shortages among air traffic controllers, who are not being paid during the shutdown.

While there will be a reduction in flights offered, United will still fly around 4,000 flights daily. Plus, the airline had already planned for a surge in travel starting in November, so it will actually offer more seats than it did before the summer, a silver lining for any flyers who need to find alternative options.

Finally, United is offering a travel waiver from November 6 to November 13, 2025, which will allow anyone flying during that period to request a full refund for canceling a flight or to change flights for no additional cost.

What’s Going on With Air Travel Right Now?

While the government is shut down, air traffic controllers, who are considered essential workers, are required to continue working, even without pay. However, there has (understandably) been an increase in air traffic controllers calling out or taking sick days.

As a result, to maintain safety in the sector, the FAA has mandated a 10% reduction in traffic from 40 airports across the country. The reductions will ramp up from a starting point of 4% tomorrow, November 7, up to the 10% figure next week. You can find a full list of affected airports and their status here.

Tips for Flying During the Shutdown

Flying while the government remains shut down has the potential to be a hassle, and now, with Thanksgiving coming up quickly, it has the potential to be even more so.

If you’re traveling soon, keep these travel tips in mind to help ensure a more seamless experience.

• Check your email and airline apps regularly, as these are the most reliable sources for the most up-to-date information.
• Arrive at the airport earlier than you usually do and maintain flexibility in your plans.
• If you can, use services like CLEAR, TSA PreCheck, and Touchless ID to pass through security more quickly.
• Book backup flights with your points and miles in case there’s an issue with your original reservation.
• Book a bus, train, or drive to your destination (if possible).

Remember, too, that United is offering a waiver through November 13, allowing you to change flights without penalty or cancel with a full refund if necessary.

Final Thoughts

United has shared an update on what flyers can expect if they’re flying with the carrier in the upcoming days. Check the carrier’s website and mobile app frequently for the latest information and know that you can change flights with no penalty or even cancel for a full refund.