Government shutdown ends; Delta prepares for full operational return

International

The U.S. federal government has reopened following the passage of a bill that brought the longest shutdown in the nation’s history to an end

In a statement, Delta welcomed the decision and expressed appreciation for the thousands of federal employees who continued working without pay to maintain the safety and functioning of the nation’s air transportation system.

Delta emphasized its gratitude to air traffic controllers, Transportation Security Administration officers and Customs and Border Protection personnel, as well as to its own employees who supported customers and government workers throughout the shutdown. The airline noted that it expects to restore its operation to full capacity in the coming days and deliver the level of service customers anticipate ahead of the holiday travel season.

Delta also reported that its network has stabilized after recent disruptions caused by a combination of air traffic control staffing shortages and seasonal weather conditions in Atlanta and other regions. CEO Ed Bastian discussed the airline’s performance, growth outlook and the operational effects of the shutdown in a CNBC interview.

The airline continues to operate the vast majority of its schedule in coordination with the FAA, with safety remaining its highest priority. FAA-directed cancellations are now complete, and with minimal constraints, Delta expects normal operations while closely monitoring potential impacts.

Customers affected by recent disruptions retain added flexibility to change, cancel or refund their flights—including Delta Main Cabin Basic tickets—without penalty during the designated travel period. The latest updates and options are available on delta.com and via the Fly Delta app.