In early November 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration announced that they would be reducing airport traffic at 40 major airports across the United States. This was in response to staffing issues due to the government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025. Americans are now bracing for major travel disruptions, especially heading into the 2025 holiday season. Travelers are increasingly unsure whether their flights will take off on time… or at all.
A new survey from Beach.com of 1,006 Americans reveals how this shutdown is reshaping travel plans, trust in airlines, and holiday spending decisions.
Key Findings
- 38% expect the FAA shutdown to affect their travel plans
- 59% would consider changing their travel dates to avoid potential disruptions
- 64% would cancel their trip altogether if flight cancellations increase
- 62% are concerned about flight delays or cancellations this holiday season
- 1 in 2 Americans are reconsidering holiday travel spending due to reduced FAA operations
How the Government Shutdown Is Affecting U.S. Air Travel
Americans are already aware of, and reacting to, the FAA’s reduced airport operations. While 86% of respondents know about the shutdown’s impact on air traffic, the concern isn’t unwarranted, as 41% have upcoming flights in the next 2–3 months, and 38% believe those plans will be affected. Among those expecting disruptions, nearly half are flying out of one of the 40 airports the FAA announced will face reduced traffic, putting them at higher risk for delays, cancellations, and schedule reshuffling.
Travelers aren’t waiting for the chaos to start; some are already changing behavior. Nearly 6 in 10 would move their travel dates if needed, 64% would cancel their trip entirely if cancellations rise, and 72% would skip flying altogether and choose another form of transportation if delays worsen. Trust in airlines is also declining, with 63% not believing airlines or airports can manage schedules effectively. The majority (78%) feel airlines should offer compensation when shutdown-related disruptions cause delays.
Holiday Travel Stress Rises as FAA Reduces Airport Operations
Concerns only grow when looking at the upcoming holiday travel. With 62% already concerned about flight delays or cancellations and 77% lacking confidence in holiday air travel, flying is no longer a guaranteed part of seasonal traditions for many. That uncertainty is hitting wallets, too—1 in 2 Americans are reconsidering how much they’re willing to spend on holiday travel due to reduced FAA operations, a shift that could ripple into airlines, hotels, and tourism economies.
When asked whether they feel more stressed about holiday air travel this year than in previous seasons, 62% said yes. And when rating how worried they are about airport delays on a 1–5 scale, nearly half (44%) landed at a 4 or 5. Close to half the country is entering the busiest travel season of the year, already expecting major disruption!
As long as the shutdown continues, travelers will be forced to make decisions based on uncertainty rather than confirmed disruptions. Whether delays actually happen or not, the data shows the impact has already taken hold, and holiday travel in 2025 likely won’t look the same because of it.
Holiday Beach Travel
As Americans navigate the 2025 holiday travel season, beach getaways remain a beloved escape—even if travelers are adjusting how they get to the beach. From budget-friendly stays and local beach trips to road adventures and staycations, vacationers are determined to experience the relaxation and joy of the coast without overspending.
At Beach.com, we’re committed to making your beach dreams possible. Our expert guides provide inspiration and tips for affordable beach vacations, and we encourage our community to participate in beach cleanups to preserve these stunning shores.
Methodology
In November 2025, we surveyed 1,006 Americans nationwide to understand how they feel about the FAA’s reduced operations announcement and its impact on travel plans. Respondents were 49% female, 49% male and 2% nonbinary, with an age range of 20 to 80 and an average age of 43.
Fair Use
When using this data and research, please attribute by linking to this study and citing Beach.com
