US shutdown: More than 2,500 flights cancelled over weekend; passengers left confused amid Thanksgiving season

The ongoing government shutdown has severely disrupted US flight schedules, leading to over 2,500 cancellations by Saturday evening. Staffing shortages at FAA radar centers and control towers, exacerbated by unpaid air traffic controllers, are forcing airlines to scale back operations. This is causing significant passenger anxiety, financial losses, and broader economic concerns for supply chains and tourism.