Sky Cleared, Turkeys Rejoice: FAA Lifts Flight Caps Before Thanksgiving Madness

The FAA has finally handed travelers an early holiday gift: nationwide flight caps are gone, lifted just in time for America’s annual airport stampede. After weeks of reduced schedules at 40 major airports, airlines are back to full throttle—and passengers can stop practicing their “Please don’t cancel my flight” face.

Federal officials say the caps ended after staffing stabilized and safety trends improved across air-traffic control centers. Controllers, many of whom spent the shutdown working full shifts without pay, are starting to see bonuses, steadier schedules, and slightly better moods. Experts say morale has climbed from “panic mode” to “acceptable for Thanksgiving week.”

With nearly three million daily passengers expected at peak, the return to normal operations is a huge relief. Of course, Mother Nature still holds the real power—weather, tech glitches, and the occasional rogue luggage belt remain fully operational.

And for Coachella Valley travelers: Palm Springs International is bracing for packed lines and parking lots, so arrive early, hydrate, and be kind to yourself. Frontier is pausing service at month’s end, but all nonstop routes remain covered by other airlines.

For now, though, holiday travelers can breathe easier. The flight caps are gone, the system is steadier, and Thanksgiving travel may be chaotic—but at least it’s the normal kind of chaos