WASHINGTON, D.C. — November 6, 2025 — The United States government shutdown entered another critical phase Thursday as the Trump administration ordered a 4% reduction in flights at 40 major airports nationwide. The move intensified travel chaos across the country, while lawmakers in Congress remained deadlocked over funding and healthcare provisions.
FAA Orders Flight Cuts at Major U.S. Airports
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the administration’s directive would take effect Friday at 6 a.m. ET, forcing airlines to cut scheduled operations. Major carriers preemptively canceled hundreds of flights in anticipation of the order, citing logistical uncertainty and staff shortages caused by the ongoing government funding standoff.
Administration officials said the measure was necessary to preserve safety operations and prevent air traffic overloads. However, critics argue it reflects growing dysfunction within federal agencies as the shutdown stretches into its second week.
“This was not a decision we took lightly,” an FAA spokesperson said. “Our top priority remains passenger safety, even amid staffing and resource challenges.”
Senate Gridlock Stalls Negotiations
Efforts to end the shutdown remained frozen Thursday as Senate Democrats refused to advance a GOP-led proposal without stronger commitments to address healthcare costs and social programs. Lawmakers traded accusations throughout the day, with no sign of a breakthrough before the weekend.
“The American people deserve a functioning government, not partisan games,” said Senator Maria Gonzalez (D-CA). “We cannot pass a temporary fix that ignores rising healthcare expenses and critical funding needs.”
Republican leaders countered that Democrats were holding the economy hostage for political leverage. Senator Mitch Reynolds (R-KY) called the opposition “reckless obstruction” and urged swift passage of the GOP’s interim budget proposal.
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Food Assistance Restored After Federal Ruling
In a related development, a federal judge in Rhode Island ordered the administration to resume funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The ruling requires the government to restore food stamp benefits for tens of millions of Americans whose assistance was halted due to the shutdown.
Judge Caroline Whitmore ruled that the suspension violated federal obligations and imposed undue hardship on vulnerable households. “The federal government cannot use political disputes as justification for denying citizens basic sustenance,” she wrote.
Humanitarian groups welcomed the decision, calling it a temporary lifeline for struggling families.
Air Travel Disruptions Ripple Nationwide
The FAA’s directive has triggered widespread flight delays, with major airports in New York, Atlanta, Chicago, and Los Angeles among those affected. Airline officials warned that the cuts could cascade into weekend travel disruptions if negotiations do not resume promptly.
Passengers have reported long lines, cancellations, and difficulty reaching customer service amid reduced staffing. Analysts say the impact could grow if air traffic controllers and TSA agents continue to work without pay.
“This is the worst possible timing,” said Aviation Policy Institute analyst Laura Hillman. “The holidays are approaching, and every day of shutdown adds to the backlog and public frustration.”
Economic Pressure and Public Backlash
The shutdown has already caused ripple effects across multiple sectors, including tourism, defense contracting, and public health. Economists estimate that the crisis is costing the economy over $1 billion per day in lost productivity and federal spending delays.
Public opinion polls show frustration growing among voters. A CNN poll released Thursday found that 62% of Americans blame the administration for the impasse, while 28% blame Congress, and 10% remain undecided.
“The longer this lasts, the more damage it does — not just economically, but politically,” said Dr. Aaron Fisher, a political analyst at Columbia University.
Administration Defends Shutdown Tactics
White House officials defended the administration’s position, arguing that the spending freeze is necessary to force fiscal responsibility. They said the current standoff reflects a refusal by Congress to negotiate in good faith.
“We are committed to restoring order and accountability,” said Press Secretary Linda Carver. “The President will not sign another bloated budget that burdens taxpayers.”
The administration has maintained that national debt control and regulatory reforms remain top priorities, even as critics accuse it of using essential services as bargaining chips.
Uncertain Path Forward
As Friday approaches, negotiators are under growing pressure to reach a deal before more services shut down. Several governors have urged Washington to compromise, warning that extended disruption could strain local economies and infrastructure.
Transportation experts caution that even if a deal is reached soon, full flight operations could take several days to normalize. For now, travelers and workers alike are bracing for another weekend of uncertainty.
“The nation’s patience is wearing thin,” said Aviation Workers Union President Jeffrey Cole. “Our message to Washington is simple: stop the political theater and get the government back to work.”
