FORT WORTH, Texas – American Airlines has issued an update following the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) directive requiring airlines to reduce flight schedules due to the ongoing government shutdown and a nationwide shortage of air traffic controllers.
The FAA directive will take effect Friday, Nov. 7, with airlines ordered to scale back operations to maintain safe airspace management.
Flights scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 6, will operate as planned.
Minimal Impact Expected for Most Travelers
American Airlines said it expects the vast majority of customers’ travel to remain unaffected, emphasizing that long-haul international flights will continue as scheduled.
As flight schedules are adjusted, the airline will proactively contact impacted customers to provide updates and options for rebooking or refunds.
“We encourage all customers to check their flight status on site or through the mobile app for real-time updates,” the company said.
Flexible Options for Affected Passengers
American Airlines stressed that disrupting customers’ plans is the last thing we want to do, and is providing extra flexibility for travelers affected by cancellations or changes.
Customers whose flights are canceled or who choose not to travel during the impacted period will be able to change their flights or request refunds without penalties.
“To provide additional flexibility during the impacted travel period, customers whose flights are canceled for any reason or who choose not to travel will be able to change their flight or request a refund without any penalty,” the airline stated.
Airline Calls for an End to the Shutdown
In its statement, American Airlines urged lawmakers in Washington, D.C. to reach a swift resolution to end the shutdown, which has already caused disruptions across the U.S. aviation system.
“We continue to urge leaders in Washington, D.C., to reach an immediate resolution to end the shutdown,” the statement read.
The airline also expressed gratitude to federal employees — including air traffic controllers, TSA officers, and CBP officers — who continue working without pay to ensure travelers’ safety.
“We remain grateful to the air traffic controllers, TSA officers, CBP officers, and other federal employees who are working right now without pay — all to get our customers where they need to be safely — as well as our American Airlines team members who always work to take the best care of our customers.”
About American Airlines Group
American Airlines Group is one of the world’s leading global carriers, offering thousands of daily flights to over 350 destinations in more than 60 countries.
The airline is a founding member of the oneworld® alliance, which connects travelers to over 900 destinations worldwide.
Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL.
