RALEIGH, N.C. — Travelers at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) are seeing fewer cancellations than some major hubs, but flight delays remain a growing concern as the federal government shutdown continues.
Airlines are still trimming flight schedules as directed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which aims to reduce the workload on air traffic controllers. These controllers have now missed two full paychecks since the shutdown began on October 1.
Limited Cancellations at RDU
As of 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, only about a dozen flights had been canceled at RDU, including five flights to or from New York.
However, travelers are more likely to experience delays, particularly later in the day as slowdowns at major hub airports cascade.
- More than 30 flights scheduled to depart RDU after 4 p.m. Monday were delayed, some by hours.
- Overall on Monday, 185 flights were delayed in and out of RDU, according to FlightAware.
- Weather contributed to many delays as a winter storm moved through the Northeast.
National Impact
Sunday was the worst day for cancellations and delays since the FAA directive went into effect:
- Nearly 3,000 flights canceled nationwide, including 57 at RDU.
- More than 11,000 flights delayed across the country.
FAA Order Timeline
The FAA’s order to reduce flight schedules remains in effect until the government fully reopens:
- Nov. 7 (Friday): 4% reduction in flights
- Nov. 10 (Tuesday): 6% reduction
- Nov. 13 (Thursday): 8% reduction
- Nov. 14 (Friday): 10% reduction
The cuts focus on 40 major airports, including most large hubs like Charlotte Douglas International, though RDU is not among the top 40. However, many destinations frequently used by Triangle residents are affected.
Airlines are required to:
- Notify passengers in advance if flights are canceled
- Rebook passengers on alternate flights or refund their tickets
Government Response
The U.S. Senate approved a bill late Monday to reopen the government and restore pay for air traffic controllers and other federal employees.
It remains unclear when or if the House of Representatives will pass the measure and send it to President Trump. Until then, FAA restrictions on air traffic continue.
Travelers are advised to check flight status frequently and consider contingency plans for delays or canceled flights.
