The U.S. Government shutdown that began in early October created widespread operational challenges across Customs, ATC services, and major airports. With the FAA now lifting all traffic restrictions, business aviation access is returning — but operators should expect a slow operational recovery as staffing and traffic flows normalize.

Below is the current operational picture.

CBP Processing and Personnel

Essential functions continued throughout the shutdown

CBP officers remained on duty as essential personnel. Ports of entry stayed open, and international business aviation arrivals continued to be processed.

Staffing reductions caused delays

Although core functions remained active, reduced staffing resulted in:

• Processing delays for some GA flights

• Limited overtime availability

• Potential constraints on Reimbursable Services Program (RSP) support

These impacts may continue temporarily as CBP returns to normal staffing levels.

Administrative programs slowed

Some non-essential CBP functions experienced delays or pauses, including:

• Border Overflight Exemption (BOE) processing

• Visa Waiver Program support

• Training and administrative activities

These services should gradually resume normal pace after the shutdown.

Air Traffic Control Operations Under Strain

Shutdown restrictions now lifted

As of 6 a.m. EST on Nov. 17, all FAA-mandated traffic restrictions tied to the shutdown have been removed.

Why the restrictions occurred

The shutdown created:

• Significant ATC staffing shortages

• Non-payment for controllers, contributing to absenteeism

• Reduced capacity at ~40 airports

• Full or partial bans on business aviation operations at 12 major hubs

What to expect now

With restrictions lifted, operators should prepare for:

• Continued delays at historically congested hubs

• Residual staffing shortages during the recovery period

• Potential bottlenecks during peak periods

• Gradual restoration of normal traffic flow over days or weeks

The FAA has not provided a formal timeline for when traffic levels will fully normalize.

General Aviation Program Managers Deemed Essential

These personnel remained essential and available throughout the shutdown, providing escalation paths for operators facing clearance or processing challenges — a key stabilizing factor for business aviation during the restrictions.

Bottom Line

With the FAA removing all restrictions, conditions for business aviation are improving — but recovery will be gradual. Operators should continue planning conservatively as the system stabilizes.

Expect:

• Residual CBP staffing-related delays

• Stretched ATC resources as traffic ramps back up

• Delays at large hubs still adjusting schedules

• Slow resumption of paused administrative programs (e.g., BOE)

Operator Recommendations

• Add buffer time to schedules

• Monitor NOTAMs closely in case of localized restrictions

• Prepare alternates for high-volume hubs

• Maintain communication with handlers and authorities

• Stay aware of shifting CBP staffing levels and RSP availability

Congressional action on FAA appropriations and the Funding Stability Act will be important to prevent similar disruptions in the future.