PHOENIX, Ariz. — Hundreds of flights were disrupted on Monday, November 10, at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ordered a temporary airport closure amid the ongoing government shutdown and air traffic controller shortages.
FAA Orders Temporary Closure
The FAA’s directive went into effect at 10 p.m. on November 9 and is set to expire at 4:59 p.m. on November 10.
According to flight tracking service FlightAware, as of 9 a.m. Monday, a total of 394 flights to and from Sky Harbor had been delayed, while 96 flights were canceled.
Officials say the closure comes as part of ongoing efforts to manage staffing shortages and maintain safe airspace operations during the shutdown, which has left thousands of air traffic controllers working without pay.
What Flights Are Affected
The FAA clarified that the closure does not impact commercial airline flights. Instead, it applies to general aviation operations — including private jets, public safety flights, firefighting aircraft, and military operations.
In other words, passenger flights on major airlines will continue to operate, though travelers may still experience delays or schedule adjustments due to broader air traffic limitations.
Airport Remains Open
Despite the FAA order, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport remains open to the public.
Airport spokesperson Monica Hernandez confirmed that security checkpoints and terminal facilities are operating as normal.
“Passengers should continue to check their flight status with their airline before arriving,” Hernandez said.
While the runway restrictions mainly affect non-commercial aircraft, the ripple effects of ongoing staffing shortages are expected to cause delays across the broader air traffic network.
The Bigger Picture
The FAA has been reducing flight capacity at more than 40 major U.S. airports since early November as part of an emergency plan to ease pressure on overworked air traffic controllers.
As the government shutdown continues into its second month, the aviation industry has been hit particularly hard, with thousands of cancellations and delays nationwide.
Sky Harbor, one of the busiest airports in the country, has been among the hardest hit in recent weeks, with extended ground delays and route capacity limits.
What Travelers Should Do
Passengers flying in or out of Phoenix should:
- Check flight status before heading to the airport.
- Allow extra travel time in case of delays or rebookings.
- Sign up for text or email alerts from their airline for real-time updates.
While commercial flights remain operational, travelers are advised to stay informed as the FAA continues to monitor and adjust air traffic operations.
