Some of the nation’s busiest airports saw hourslong security lines this weekend, as the partial government shutdown begins to hit air travel.

Hundreds of thousands of stranded travelers are scrambling to make new connections and get through to airlines on jammed phone lines and online portals after the attack on Iran by the United States and Israel shut down much of the Middle East to air travel.

The Federal Aviation Administration’s unprecedented order to scale back flights nationwide because of the record-long government shutdown has taken effect, with some passengers trying to figure out backup travel plans.

Anxious travelers across the U.S. are feeling a bit of relief as airlines have mostly stayed on schedule while gradually cutting flights because of the government shutdown.

The Federal Aviation Administration says it plans to reduce air traffic by 10% across 40 “high-volume” markets beginning Friday morning to maintain safety during the ongoing government shutdown.

In a story published Oct. 7, 2025, about flight delays, The Associated Press erroneously reported the number of federal employees working without pay at the Tampa International Airport during the government shutdown.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has hinted at possible changes to TSA's liquid restrictions.

Sneaking a little ahead of line to get on that plane faster.

Delta Air Lines will move more slowly in tweaking its frequent-flyer program after customers complained loudly about changes the airline announced back in September.