Thanksgiving week is always one of the busiest travel periods of the year, but this time around we’re navigating something extra: a government shutdown that’s already forcing the U.S. Department of Transportation to reduce flights at more than 40 major airports. Add in record travel demand, and you’ve got a perfect storm for delays, cancellations, and a lot of stressed-out passengers.
But here’s the good news—if you plan ahead and travel strategically, you can dramatically increase your odds of getting where you need to be on time this holiday season. After years as a flight attendant and now as a travel expert and advisor, I’ve learned that small adjustments in your travel routine can make a big difference.
Here’s your Thanksgiving travel playbook, shutdown edition.
Why the Shutdown Is Affecting Flights
Because of staffing shortages at the FAA during the shutdown, the DOT has required airlines to cut about 10% of flights at some of the nation’s busiest airports. Fewer air traffic controllers means airlines must run smaller, more predictable schedules. When they need to cancel, they’ll usually start with the lowest-demand flights or those later in the day when operational delays have already begun to stack up.
Think of it like trying to run a restaurant with half the kitchen staff—something’s going to slow down, and in this case, it’s the flight schedule.
How to Outsmart Shutdown Delays
1. Book (or switch to) the first flight of the day
Morning flights are your best friend. The airplane and crew are already in place, and weather delays haven’t had time to ripple through the system yet.
2. Build in longer layovers
Shutdown staffing means TSA lines may move slower and flights might depart later than scheduled. A longer connection gives you a buffer you’ll be grateful for.
3. Download your airline’s app
When a flight cancels, the app is the fastest way to snag the next available seat—often before gate agents even make an announcement.
4. Set up alerts—lots of them
Sign up for notifications from your airline, your airport, and even FlightAware so you know about schedule changes the moment they happen.
What to Do If Your Flight Gets Cancelled
If your Thanksgiving flight disappears from the departure board, don’t panic—just move quickly. Your best move is to rebook immediately through the airline app. Don’t wait in line and don’t call unless you absolutely have to.
Remember: if the airline cancels, you’re entitled to a refund, even during a shutdown. You can also ask if your airline will rebook you on another carrier, especially if your options are limited.
Yes, You Can Fly With Thanksgiving Dinner — Here’s How
Every holiday season I get the same question: “Can I bring Thanksgiving food on the plane?” And the answer is—absolutely. But you have to pack it correctly.
Here’s the rule that helps you remember what’s allowed:
If it’s spreadable, pourable, or spoonable, TSA considers it a liquid.
That means items like gravy, cranberry sauce (even the jellied kind), mashed potatoes, moist stuffing, dips, and soups must follow the 3.4-ounce rule in carry-on luggage. Larger quantities need to go in checked bags, double-bagged and well-sealed.
Now for the good news: solid foods are fine. You can bring turkey, rolls, green bean casserole, and even full pies.
How to Pack Thanksgiving Food Like a Pro
- Solid dishes (turkey, stuffing, pies): Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Use a hard container to protect the shape. Keep it cold with small, TSA-approved ice packs.
- Liquids or sauces: Must be 3.4 oz or smaller if carried on. Or check them in your luggage—double-bag everything.
And yes, TSA says pies can fly! Just expect them to be swabbed at security.
My Expert Tip: Ship the heavy stuff
If your dish needs to stay cold or contains a lot of liquid, consider shipping it overnight. With shutdown delays, it may actually arrive more reliably than checking a bag.
Final Thoughts
This Thanksgiving is all about preparation. With a little strategy—flying early, giving yourself extra time, packing smart, and staying flexible—you can outsmart the shutdown and still make it home for turkey, stuffing, and that second slice of pie.
Safe travels, and happy Thanksgiving!
If you’d like help planning your holiday travel or need expert advice, feel free to reach out.
