US Airlines Cut Flights Amid Government Shutdown, Travelers Adjust

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has triggered significant disruptions in air travel, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implementing a nationwide reduction in flights. Effective immediately, the FAA aims to cut flights by 10% at major airports, including those in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. As a result, numerous flights have already been canceled, particularly affecting hubs in Chicago, Atlanta, Denver, Dallas, and Phoenix.

The FAA’s decision is primarily intended to alleviate the burden on unpaid air traffic controllers. According to FlightAware, hundreds of flights scheduled for Friday have already been affected, with the full impact expected to become evident as the U.S. approaches major holiday travel periods, such as Thanksgiving. This disruption is anticipated to extend beyond just air travel, potentially affecting package deliveries as well.

As travelers seek alternatives, there are signs of increased demand for other modes of transportation. Companies like Hertz are reporting a notable rise in one-way car rentals, while both Amtrak and Greyhound’s owner, Flix North America, are preparing for a surge in bookings. This shift could lead to a significant uptick in car rentals and train travel, particularly if flight cancellations continue to escalate.

Implications of the Shutdown on SNAP Benefits

In related news, the Trump administration has sought to block a federal judge’s order requiring the distribution of full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November. This request comes amidst the ongoing government shutdown. A U.S. district judge had mandated that the payments be made by Friday, but the administration argues against spending more than what is available in a contingency fund. While some states, including California and Wisconsin, have begun distributing benefits, the legal battle adds to the uncertainty surrounding a program that assists approximately 1 in 8 Americans.

Cornell University Strikes Deal for Federal Funding

In another significant development, Cornell University has agreed to pay $60 million to restore federal funding and conclude investigations surrounding alleged civil rights violations. Cornell’s President, Michael Kotlikoff, announced that the agreement would allow the university to regain over $250 million in research funding withheld by the government. The settlement includes a direct payment of $30 million to the U.S. government, alongside another $30 million aimed at supporting U.S. farmers.

Legal and Political Developments

In the realm of law and politics, the Supreme Court is set to consider a longshot appeal from Kim Davis, the former Kentucky court clerk who gained notoriety for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. The appeal seeks to overturn the landmark 2015 decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. Davis aims to challenge a lower court order requiring her to pay $360,000 in damages and attorney’s fees.

Additionally, President Donald Trump has granted a pardon to former baseball star Darryl Strawberry for past tax evasion and drug charges. Strawberry, an eight-time All-Star known for his time with the New York Mets and other teams, expressed gratitude for the pardon, emphasizing his journey towards sobriety.

In political news, Rep. Elise Stefanik has officially launched her campaign for governor of New York. Representing a large congressional district in northern New York, she has ramped up her criticism of Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul. Despite the challenges facing Republican candidates in New York, Stefanik’s name recognition and fundraising abilities could play a pivotal role in her campaign.

As the weekend approaches, Wall Street is also facing challenges, with stocks falling and the S&P 500 on track for its first weekly loss in a month. Companies are reacting to quarterly earnings reports, with notable declines for payments company Block, while exercise equipment maker Peloton has seen its stock rise following better-than-expected results.

Finally, the entertainment industry is abuzz as Kendrick Lamar leads the nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, followed closely by Lady Gaga, Jack Antonoff, and Cirkut, each with seven nominations. The awards ceremony is scheduled to air on February 1, 2026, from the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

As these stories unfold, the implications of the government shutdown and the resulting changes across various sectors will continue to develop, impacting the lives of countless Americans.