The Federal Aviation Administration issued a directive on Thursday, November 6, 2025, requiring United Airlines Holdings and other U.S. carriers to reduce domestic flight operations by 4% at 40 high‑traffic airports, effective 6 a.m. Eastern Time on Friday, November 7. The order is part of a broader FAA effort to mitigate safety risks created by the ongoing federal government shutdown, which has left air‑traffic‑control and TSA staff unpaid and operating under extreme fatigue.
United will implement the 4% cut across its network, with the FAA planning to increase the reduction to 10% by November 14. The phased approach means United will gradually scale back flights, primarily affecting United Express regional services and mainline routes that do not connect major hubs. The order covers major hubs such as Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C., and includes specific airports within those metropolitan areas, though the FAA has not yet listed every affected gate.
The flight cuts are expected to have a pronounced impact on United’s revenue during the Thanksgiving travel window. Industry estimates suggest that a 10% capacity reduction could cost airlines more than $400 million in lost revenue. United’s Q3 2025 results—revenue of $15.23 billion, up 2.6% year‑over‑year, and an adjusted EPS of $2.78—show a company that was already operating on a tighter margin, with operating margin falling to 9.2% from 10.5% the previous year. The new restrictions will further compress margins as the airline must absorb the cost of refunds and re‑routing while maintaining safety standards.
United has committed to keeping passengers informed and offering refunds for affected flights, including those with non‑refundable tickets. The airline’s customer‑service strategy is designed to preserve loyalty during a period when travelers are most sensitive to disruptions. Management has emphasized that the order is a temporary measure, expected to lift once the FAA deems staffing levels and safety conditions adequate, likely when the government shutdown ends or when the FAA can confirm that air‑traffic‑control and TSA staffing is restored to normal levels.
The FAA’s directive represents a significant regulatory event for United, directly limiting its operational capacity and potentially reducing revenue during a peak travel season. The order underscores the broader systemic risk posed by the prolonged shutdown, as airlines must navigate staffing shortages while maintaining safety and customer service. United’s response—flight reductions, refunds, and clear communication—illustrates the airline’s focus on balancing regulatory compliance with customer retention in a challenging environment.
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