The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has placed renewed strain across the aviation sector. With federal staffing shortages now affecting air traffic control and other key operations, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued NOTAMs prohibiting non-scheduled General Aviation services at a number of major U.S. airports from 10 November 2025. 

Among the airports affected are:
Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW), Denver (DEN), Boston Logan (BOS), Houston Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Atlanta (ATL), John F. Kennedy (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), Newark (EWR), Phoenix (PHX), Washington National (DCA), and Seattle-Tacoma (SEA). 

While limited exceptions apply, such as for based aircraft, emergency and medical operations, and military or police flights, the measure represents a significant operational challenge for charter and private operators alike. 

What This Means for Private and Charter Flights

The FAA’s directive highlights the broader impact of the shutdown on the entire U.S. aviation system, not just commercial airlines. With air traffic control and airport personnel facing furloughs or unpaid status, capacity and oversight are under pressure nationwide. 

For charter travelers, this means: 

• Restricted access to key hubs, especially for non-based aircraft 

• Potential delays or rescheduling as operators adjust to the NOTAMs and reroute aircraft 

• A greater emphasis on safety and compliance, as operations continue within limited staffing and oversight 

Safety and Professionalism Come First

Safety and compliance remain the highest priorities. With reduced staffing and oversight, the aviation community has a collective responsibility to operate carefully and within the parameters set by the FAA. 

Travelers may have essential reasons to fly, whether for business continuity, medical travel, or critical logistics. ACC Aviation’s role is to help them do so safely, efficiently, and with the least possible disruption. 

Finding Solutions: Nearby Alternatives

While direct operations into the listed airports are currently restricted, there are many viable alternate airports that can keep travel plans on track. In most metro areas, nearby facilities are fully equipped to handle business aviation traffic and offer streamlined ground access to city centres. 

For example: 

• Chicago O’Hare (ORD): Chicago Executive (PWK), DuPage (DPA), or Gary/Chicago (GYY) 

• New York JFK/Newark (EWR): Teterboro (TEB) or White Plains (HPN) 

• Los Angeles (LAX): Van Nuys (VNY), Burbank (BUR), or Long Beach (LGB) 

• Dallas Fort Worth (DFW): Dallas Love Field (DAL) or Addison (ADS) 

• Washington National (DCA): Dulles (IAD) or Manassas (HEF) 

• Boston Logan (BOS): Bedford (BED) or Providence (PVD) 

These alternate airports often provide faster ground handling, easier slot access, and less congestion, offering valuable flexibility when primary hubs are unavailable to non-scheduled flights. 

ACC Aviation’s Commitment to Clients

As developments continue, ACC Aviation’s charter and operations teams are in direct contact with partner operators to monitor the situation in real time. 

Our priorities are clear: 

• Transparent communication, keeping clients fully informed of changing restrictions and available options 

• Operational flexibility, identifying and securing alternate routes or airports 

• Safety and compliance, ensuring all activity meets regulatory and professional standards 

• Minimized disruption, maintaining continuity for our clients despite the challenges 

Looking Ahead

A resolution to the shutdown is expected in the near term, but the situation underscores the importance of flexibility and preparedness in aviation. ACC Aviation remains focused on supporting clients with professionalism, agility, and care. 

We encourage all travelers and operators to stay informed of the latest FAA updates and to speak with their charter specialist early to explore alternative routing options. 

Even as the industry faces temporary restrictions, ACC Aviation continues to provide the guidance and adaptability that help travelers reach their destinations safely and with minimal disruption.