FAA Lifts Flight Restrictions as Thanksgiving Travel Surges in the US: Essential Travel Insurance Tips for a Smooth Journey – You Need to Know

Published on November 21, 2025

With Thanksgiving travel surging in the US, the FAA lifts flight restrictions, ensuring smoother journeys. Learn how travel insurance can protect your holiday plans.

As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of travelers are gearing up for their holiday journeys. While many are eager to reunite with loved ones, the recent uncertainty surrounding air travel has left some feeling anxious. Fortunately, Squaremouth, the nation’s leading travel insurance comparison platform, reassures travelers that the situation is stabilizing and air travel is returning to normal.

The uncertainty surrounding the holiday travel season has been largely alleviated, thanks to the end of the government shutdown. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) lifted all restrictions on commercial flights at major U.S. airports on November 17, allowing air traffic operations to resume smoothly. This development has brought much-needed relief to families who were considering postponing or canceling their travel plans.

With an estimated 31 million Americans expected to travel this Thanksgiving, the return to normal operations comes just in time for the busiest travel period of the year. According to The Washington Post, over 95% of flights are now departing on time, even though air traffic controller shortages persist nationwide. Additionally, cancellation rates at the affected airports remain exceptionally low, at just 0.25%, well below typical levels, signaling that air travel is recovering from previous disruptions.

Despite the positive news, the hectic nature of holiday travel can still create concerns for many, particularly those worried about potential delays or cancellations. In this environment, travel insurance offers an extra layer of security. Squaremouth recommends several travel insurance options that can provide peace of mind and financial protection in the event of unforeseen travel disruptions.

One valuable coverage option is Trip Delay Insurance. If your flight is delayed due to weather, mechanical issues, or airline-related problems, this policy can reimburse you for expenses such as meals, hotels, or alternate transportation. This can significantly ease the burden of an unexpected delay, especially during the holiday rush.

Another option to consider is Missed Connection Insurance. If a delay causes you to miss a connecting flight, this coverage can help with unexpected expenses such as meals or overnight accommodation. It also assists with the costs required to catch up to your original itinerary, ensuring that the disruption doesn’t derail your entire travel experience.

For those whose holiday plans are abruptly cut short, Trip Interruption Insurance is a critical option. If a significant delay forces you to return home early, this coverage may reimburse you for unused trip costs or additional travel expenses. This can be particularly helpful in situations where flight cancellations or unexpected changes force a disruption to your planned itinerary.

Travelers who face baggage-related issues will find Baggage Delay and Baggage Loss Insurance invaluable. If your baggage is delayed or lost, this policy can provide compensation for any additional expenses you incur as a result, such as purchasing necessary clothing or toiletries. It can also cover the cost of lost items, reducing the financial impact of such unfortunate events.

For travelers who remain unsure about proceeding with their plans, Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage may be the best option. This add-on allows you to cancel your trip for reasons not typically covered by standard policies, such as changes in personal circumstances or lingering concerns about travel disruptions. CFAR provides the ultimate flexibility and can offer reassurance if you are still uncertain about your plans.

With the Thanksgiving travel season in full swing, many families can now proceed with their plans knowing that air travel is stabilizing. However, with so many variables in play, travel insurance remains an essential tool for safeguarding your trip. Whether you’re concerned about delays, cancellations, or baggage issues, investing in the right insurance policy can provide financial protection and peace of mind, allowing you to focus on what matters most—spending time with loved ones this holiday season.