Orlando Airport Issues Warning About Continued Flight Delays

Following weeks of delays and cancellations due to the United States government shutdown, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has lifted the emergency order calling for reduced flights — but that doesn’t mean the chaos is over quite yet.

Southwest at Orlando International Airport

Orlando International Airport (MCO) has warned that it may take airlines some time to fully return to normal, which could impact holiday travel plans.

The FAA officially lifted flight restrictions on Monday, November 17th, 2025, according to NBC News. The cuts were designed to help “address fatigue and staffing issues” among air traffic controllers during the record-long government shutdown. Now that the shutdown has ended, the staffing levels have “stabilized.” Still, though, it will likely take a while before things fully return to normal, as the Orlando Airport has warned.

Orlando International Airport

On Monday, November 17th, MCO issued a warning on X/Twitter that it “may take some time for carriers to fully resume regular services in the coming weeks.” In addition, MCO is urging passengers to monitor updates from the airlines themselves for more specific information.

Please see the following update regarding the conclusion of the FAA’s Emergency Order: pic.twitter.com/zOwJ8fuTcX

— Orlando International Airport (@MCO) November 17, 2025

Southwest Airlines has also issued a statement about air travel returning to normal, advising that the airline is ready to welcome passengers back on board as flights continue to ramp up.

©Southwest Airlines

Still, though, it will likely take some time before flights begin to fully return to normal, with airlines warning it could take several weeks. If you’re planning on traveling during Thanksgiving or Christmas, make sure you keep this in mind. Keep an eye on your airline’s app for the latest flight status and updates so you don’t end up having the wrong information and getting to the airport too early!

Welcome to the Orlando International Airport

We’ll be on the lookout for additional updates you need to know about from the Orlando Airport. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest news and more.

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