The Best (and Worst) Times to Travel This Thanksgiving
Beat the holiday crowds with smart timing and practical travel planning. This year’s Thanksgiving season presents unique challenges that could impact millions of travelers across the United States.
Travel Disruptions in 2025
Thanksgiving travel always tests patience, but in 2025 the situation has become even more complicated. A federal government shutdown passing the eight-week mark has placed heavy pressure on the aviation system, with air traffic controllers and TSA agents continuing to work without pay.
Impact on Airports and Flights
The FAA has responded with a 10% reduction in air traffic across 40 major airports, calling it a necessary safety precaution. This measure is expected to create longer queues, slower check-ins, and extended waiting times at gates and runways.
“Delays and cancellations beget delays and cancellations,” said aviation analyst William J.
If the shutdown continues through the holiday, analysts predict a growing ripple effect that could turn minor delays into system-wide breakdowns, echoing far more severe disruptions than those of the 2018 shutdown. By Thanksgiving week, many aviation workers will already be missing two consecutive paychecks, fueling uncertainty and stress across the system.
How to Minimize Holiday Chaos
- Travel on off-peak days early in the week or after the weekend.
- Allow extra time for airport security and check-in procedures.
- Stay informed about flight changes or cancellations through official channels.
While turbulence this holiday season may not be avoidable, smart planning can help soften the impact.
Author’s summary: Thanksgiving travel in 2025 faces heavy strain due to an ongoing government shutdown, threatening widespread delays and cancellations across the nation’s airports.