The Federal Aviation Administration closed its investigation into airlines that failed to comply with required flight cuts during the 2025 government shutdown, without seeking fines.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford told senators that after sending investigation letters, all but one airline were found in substantial compliance. The non-compliant airline received an administrative warning.
The FAA had vowed in November to gradually require a 10% reduction in domestic flights at 40 high-traffic airports during the 43-day shutdown, citing safety concerns.
Airlines for America declined immediate comment.
On November 12, the FAA froze cuts at 6%, later dropped them to 3%, and then lifted them entirely.
Cirium data showed airlines repeatedly failed to meet the cut requirements, canceling only 0.25% of flights on the final day.
The order allowed fines of up to $75,000 per flight above the limits.
