UPDATE: United Airlines has just announced significant flight reductions as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) continues to grapple with staffing shortages due to the ongoing government shutdown. As of today, October 8, 2025, delays are affecting air travel nationwide, prompting major airlines to comply with the FAA’s directive to cut flights starting Friday.
For the next few days, United Airlines plans to cancel approximately 4% of its scheduled flights in select markets. In an urgent statement to ABC News, United’s chief customer officer, David Kinzelman, reassured travelers that the majority will remain unaffected. “We are getting those cancellations in today for tomorrow through Sunday,” Kinzelman said, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to minimize disruptions for passengers.
Other airlines are facing similar challenges. Delta Air Lines has already canceled around 170 flights for Friday, expecting fewer cancellations as travel volume decreases over the weekend. Meanwhile, American Airlines is set to cancel 220 flights from its daily schedule of 6,000 flights through this weekend.
Travel experts recommend downloading airline apps for timely notifications and rebooking options in case of cancellations. Morning flights are reported to be the least impacted, providing travelers more opportunities to find alternative arrangements.
Importantly, long-haul international flights remain unaffected, with airlines like United assuring customers that key routes, such as those between Newark Liberty International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport, will continue to operate as scheduled.
As the shutdown persists, United Airlines will implement “rolling updates” to its flight schedules to keep passengers informed. Delta plans to give travelers at least a day’s notice for any cancellations, mirroring its protocol during adverse weather conditions. In a proactive measure, all three airlines have waived change and cancellation fees, allowing customers to receive refunds if they opt not to fly.
The current reductions come as airlines brace for a record 31 million travelers expected to fly during the Thanksgiving holiday period from November 21 to December 1. Experts warn of chaotic conditions as airlines receive only 48 hours to adjust their schedules. “It’s going to be really, really chaotic and hugely disruptive for the traveling public,” said Henry Harvedelt, president of Atmosphere Research.
In a now-deleted LinkedIn post, Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle advised travelers to book backup tickets with other carriers to avoid being stranded. He emphasized the importance of selecting tickets that allow for easier changes or credits in case of cancellations.
As the situation evolves, passengers are urged to stay vigilant and informed. With the FAA directing over 44,000 flights daily, the potential for widespread disruptions looms large. United Airlines, along with its counterparts, is working to navigate these challenges and ensure customer needs are met during this turbulent time.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
