U.S. shutdown disrupts travel plans for Canadian flyers

November 6, 2025

RED FM News Desk

Some Canadian travellers heading to the United States are facing cancelled flights and delays as the ongoing U.S. government shutdown strains the country’s aviation network.

Air Canada says it is maintaining a normal flight schedule but warns that passengers connecting to flights operated by its partner, United Airlines, could experience disruptions.

Porter Airlines reports that staffing shortages in major U.S. markets are leading to delays. Both airlines say affected travellers can rebook their flights at no extra cost.

Canadian carriers operate thousands of cross-border flights each week, with many connections relying on partner U.S. airlines.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration announced it will reduce flights by 10 per cent across 40 airports — including major hubs such as New York City and Chicago — starting Friday.

The agency says the move is necessary to ensure safety as unpaid air traffic controllers show increasing signs of fatigue and stress during the shutdown, now stretching into its 37th day — the longest in U.S. history.