FAA announces flight reductions at 40 airports including Orlando and Tampa International Airports

The Federal Aviation Administration has announced it's implementing flight reductions across the country due to the government shutdown.

The Federal Aviation Administration has said it would reduce flights across 40 airports as the longest government shutdown in history continues, with air traffic controllers unpaid since the shutdown began on October 1.

The FAA has revealed a list of affected airports, with a phased reduction beginning at 4% of all flights, increasing to 10% by November 14. The reductions began Friday, November 6, with over 700 flights cancelled, affecting thousands of passengers across the county.

Airports affected include some of the country’s busiest airports and major international hubs in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles and New York City. Locally, Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Tampa International Airport (TPA) are both affected, with passengers being told to check with their airline for updated flight information.

Many major airlines have already announced that they are waiving cancellation fees for all tickets,

Orlando International Airport has has issued the following statement, featuring advice for passengers:

"An Emergency Order by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identified Orlando International Airport (MCO) as one of 40 U.S. airports to have flight reductions. This FAA order, in response to the federal government shutdown, is effective as of Friday, November 7, 2025.

This is expected to result in fewer arrivals and departures at MCO, which should slow the rate of activity in the National Airspace System and assist airports that are experiencing staffing challenges. Ultimately, this order maintains the highest level of safety.

To this point, Orlando International Airport has been fortunate that federal airport employees have continued to work and there has been minimal impact on airport operations. We deeply appreciate our federal partners for their commitment.

The reduction in flights is likely to impact passengers, unfortunately, and we ask that they check directly with their airlines regarding delays and cancellations.

The airport is fully staffed to assist as much as possible during this time."

Tampa International Airport has also issued an update for passengers:

"Tampa International Airport is closely monitoring developments following the U.S. Department of Transportation and the FAA's order restricting air traffic within 40 high-volume markets. 

TPA is the 27th largest airport in the U.S. and has approximately 600 flight operations daily, which includes both commercial and private aircraft. 

Airlines set flight schedules and will implement changes in coordination with the FAA. TPA does not manage flight schedules, so any changes to routes are determined and communicated by individual carriers.

As always, passengers should check directly with their airlines regarding their flight."

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