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FAA Emergency Order Ends, US Airspace Restored
The FAA emergency order that restricted flights during a staffing shortfall has been lifted, reopening the U.S. National Airspace System to full operations.
The Federal Aviation Administration announced the termination of its emergency flight reduction order effective November 17 at 6:00 a.m., returning aircraft movements to normal across US airspace. Staffing levels have rebounded to pre-shutdown conditions, and the agency said system stability has been restored following a week of disruption.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford credited safety and operations teams for stabilizing the system and protecting the flying public after the staffing event. The agency reported only one staffing trigger on November 16, down sharply from a peak of 81 triggers on November 8.
Why the FAA emergency order was lifted
Recovery in staffing and operational readiness were the deciding factors. With fewer staffing triggers and restored coverage at key facilities, the FAA concluded that the National Airspace System could safely return to standard procedures. Airlines and travelers should see schedules normalize but may experience isolated delays as carriers recover aircraft and crew rotations.
- FAA emergency order lifted effective November 17 at 6:00 a.m.; staffing triggers fell from 81 on November 8 to 1 on November 16.
- Administrator Bryan Bedford publicly thanked FAA safety and operations personnel for restoring stability.
- Passengers should confirm flight status with their carrier for the latest updates.
Airlines and airport operators will manage the next 24–72 hours as the network digests the backlog. If you have immediate travel plans, check your airline’s notifications or contact customer service for rebooking and status. The FAA advised continued coordination with carriers while operations return to routine.
