US flight operations gradually return to normal after nationwide disruption

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says flight operations are gradually returning to normal, although passengers may still face delays and cancellations.

Flight operations across the US are gradually recovering after a nationwide disruption, with aircraft resuming departures and airport activity beginning to stabilise, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said on Saturday. In an update, Duffy said flights were operating safely, although passengers should continue to expect delays and cancellations as airlines adjust schedules and move aircraft and crew to locations where they are required. The Transportation Department is working with airlines to manage the recovery process, he said.

Duffy said the immediate priority was to help passengers reach their destinations safely and return home as quickly as possible. He also acknowledged the efforts of air traffic controllers, pilots and flight crews who have continued working during the disruption. The secretary is also set to host a press briefing at 10.30 am ET at the US Department of Transportation headquarters to provide further updates. Passengers have been advised to check directly with their airlines for changes to departure times and cancellations. The Federal Aviation Administration's website, nasstatus.faa.gov, is also providing real-time updates on airport operations. Although flights are gradually resuming, the repositioning of aircraft and crews is expected to affect airline schedules as carriers work through the backlog.