Despite fears of widespread disruptions, Thanksgiving air travel in 2025 has so far seen only moderate delays and cancellations. Approximately 82 million Americans are expected to fly domestically this week, and while typical weather and mechanical issues are present, the recent end of a 43-day government shutdown averted a larger crisis.
Government Shutdown’s Impact
The U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy ordered a 10% reduction in flights at 40 airports during the shutdown due to unpaid air traffic controllers and TSA agents. However, the shutdown concluded just in time for the holiday rush, preventing major travel chaos. This highlights the critical role of government funding in maintaining essential infrastructure – a system that almost failed this year.
Busiest Week in 15 Years
The FAA anticipates this will be the busiest Thanksgiving travel week in 15 years, meaning even small disruptions can quickly escalate. Winter storms in the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes regions may cause further delays, particularly for travelers through Chicago.
Checking Flight Status
Before heading to the airport, it’s crucial to check your flight status online via the airline’s website or app. Tools like Flight Aware and Flight Tracker can also provide real-time updates, helping you anticipate potential delays. The Misery Map on Flight Tracker shows which airports are experiencing the most issues:
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
- Dallas Fort Worth (DFW)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul (MSP)
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
- Denver (DEN)
- La Guardia New York City (LGA)
- Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)
- George Bush Intercontinental Airport Houston (IAH)
- Boston Logan (BOS)
What to Do If Your Flight is Canceled
If your flight is canceled, check the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airline Cancellation and Delay Dashboard to confirm any compensation you’re entitled to. Consider alternative travel options, such as trains or rental cars, but act quickly as availability can be limited.
Ultimately, despite the potential for disruptions, Thanksgiving air travel in 2025 has been manageable so far. However, travelers should remain vigilant, check their flight status frequently, and be prepared for unexpected changes.
