You can expect flights to operate normally after FAA lifts restrictions

The Federal Aviation Administration on Sunday, Nov. 16, lifted its emergency order requiring U.S. airlines to cut up to 10% of flights in response to additional air traffic control staffing shortages during the government shutdown.

"Today’s decision to rescind the order reflects the steady decline in staffing concerns across the NAS and allows us to return to normal operations," FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said in a statement. "I am grateful for the hard work of the FAA safety and operations teams and for their focus on the safety of the traveling public."

As the FAA started stepping down its flight restrictions leading into the weekend, airlines were largely able to resume normal operations, even ahead of the full cancelation of those restrictions Sunday evening.

"The U.S. airline industry has enjoyed a return to normal operations since Friday. I would anticipate they will return to normalcy today, if they hadn't already this weekend. Cancellations are very low — lower than normal — and on-time performance is high," Mike Arnot, a spokesperson for aviation data analytics company Cirium, told USA TODAY in an email.

As of 10:50 a.m. ET on Monday, Nov. 17, there were just 42 cancelled flights nationwide, according to FlightAware.

Are flights still being cut?

No, airlines have largely resumed normal operations and are not currently restricting their schedules.

Are airline waivers still in effect?

Major U.S. airlines appear to have ended their travel waivers as normal operations resume.

Should I cancel my Thanksgiving plans?

It's unlikely that the previous travel restrictions will affect Thanksgiving plans at this point, but it's still a busy time to travel so be prepared for other possible disruptions if you do still decide to fly.

"The U.S. traveling public should feel confident in their Thanksgiving travel plans. My family and I are planning to fly on the Wednesday and Sunday of Thanksgiving, and expect busy airports but an orderly travel season," Arnot said. "The weather can always have other plans!"