The Best (and Worst) Times to Travel This Thanksgiving
Beat the holiday travel chaos with smart planning. As Thanksgiving approaches, travelers face not only the usual rush but also the challenges posed by a prolonged government shutdown affecting the nation’s air system.
Air Travel Under Pressure
Thanksgiving travel is hectic even in ordinary years, but 2025 brings new hurdles. The ongoing shutdown has lasted more than eight weeks, leaving many essential aviation workers unpaid while they continue to keep airports functioning.
Tens of thousands of air traffic controllers and TSA agents remain on duty, though absentee rates are rising steadily. The FAA recently announced a 10% reduction in air traffic at 40 major airports, a step taken for safety but one likely to cause longer lines, slower boarding, and extended runway waits.
Potential Holiday Chaos
Experts caution that if the shutdown continues into the Thanksgiving week, the pressure on the nation’s air infrastructure could trigger widespread disruptions far beyond the normal holiday congestion.
“Delays and cancellations beget delays and cancellations,” said aviation analyst William J.
Unlike the 2018 closure, this year’s situation means many workers will be missing two full paychecks by the time families sit down for Thanksgiving dinner.
How to Minimize Travel Stress
- Book early morning flights when delays are less likely to cascade.
- Arrive at the airport earlier than usual to clear security lines.
- Monitor airline updates in real time for schedule adjustments.
- Consider flexible travel dates to avoid peak congestion days.
Author Summary
This Thanksgiving’s air travel faces mounting delays as a prolonged shutdown limits flight operations and strains unpaid aviation staff, demanding travelers plan smarter than ever.