UAE Flights Unhindered by US Shutdown

UAE–USA flights remain operational despite US government shutdown

The government shutdown that took effect in the United States on October 1, 2025, once again highlighted the severe impact that political deadlock can have on the operation of state institutions. One of the most affected areas was aviation safety and air traffic control in the United States, causing delays of thousands of flights nationwide by the second day. However, it is reassuring news that scheduled flights between the United Arab Emirates and the USA are not affected by this problem—neither Emirates nor Etihad Airlines reported any disruptions.

Thousands of delays but not affecting everyone

According to FlightAware, the air traffic tracking service in the United States, more than 3,000 flights were delayed, with an exceptionally high number at Chicago O'Hare Airport (more than 570 flights, over 20% of daily traffic), as well as in Nashville (225 flights, or every fifth flight). The reason for the delays is that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had to reduce the number of incoming flights per hour at several airports due to the government shutdown, as there were not enough air traffic controllers available.

Airports in Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, and Newark were also affected by these issues, causing not only logistical difficulties but significant frustration for travelers. These situations can be particularly dangerous for international connections, especially if transfers and connections are disrupted.

Emirates flights remain undisturbed

It is reassuring news that both Etihad and Emirates Airlines confirmed that their flights between the UAE and the United States are operating without disruption. Emirates operates direct flights daily between Dubai and several US cities (including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Houston), while Etihad primarily operates from Abu Dhabi to Chicago and New York.

There are several reasons for the uninterrupted operation of these flights. Firstly, these airlines conduct their departures in their time zones, not necessarily targeting the US morning and evening peak times. Secondly, for long-haul international flights, arrival time windows are often pre-negotiated with air traffic control, making them less exposed to sudden capacity shortages. Finally, strategic airlines like Emirates and Etihad receive prioritized attention from both countries, increasing the likelihood that disruptions would avoid them first.

Looking back: Lessons from the 2019 shutdown

This is not the first time a US government shutdown has affected aviation. In 2019, the shutdown lasted 35 days, during which more and more air traffic controllers and airport security inspectors decided not to work due to missed payments. As a result, queues increased at several major airports (e.g., Miami, LaGuardia) and daily delays occurred.

Now in 2025, a similar scenario is unfolding, but it seems airlines and international partners have learned the lessons. Emirates and Etihad, for example, proactively planned their technical and human resource capacities in case of delays on the American side.

Cybersecurity risks in the background

Besides aviation safety, another, less visible but extremely serious area is affected: cybersecurity. Dubai-based cybersecurity experts have previously warned that during a government shutdown, workforce and resource shortages could lead to critical IT systems being less monitored and maintained.

This can affect not only air traffic control but customs, immigration, and other government systems as well. Some experts believe situations like this increase the chances of malicious actors (hackers, foreign attackers) attempting to exploit vulnerabilities stemming from the shutdown.

For instance, if an airport entry system update or security backups are halted, it could pose serious data protection and service risks. Travelers from the Emirates are not directly affected by this, but the reliability of US entry systems is crucial for all international passengers.

Closing thoughts

Although the US government shutdown affected multiple airports and thousands of flights, direct air travel between the United Arab Emirates and the United States is still running reliably. The Dubai and Abu Dhabi-based airlines are doing everything possible to ensure that passengers do not experience delays or disruptions, and so far, they've been managing the situation successfully.

However, it is advisable to monitor developments, especially if the shutdown extends. The uncertainty in government operations poses not only administrative but technological risks as well. The current situation serves as another reminder of how closely interconnected aviation, international diplomacy, and digital security are in today's world.

For travelers, the most important message now is: if you are flying with Emirates or Etihad between Dubai and the USA, there is no reason for concern—just remember to regularly check the latest news, especially if you're choosing a route that involves transfers.

(Source of the article: Based on Etihad and Emirates Airlines releases.)