Weather Data Source: weather 30 days Dallas

Storms and Staffing Shortages Disrupt Flights at DFW Airport

Storm impacting flight operations at DFW Airport

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, November 30, 2025

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport faced significant disruptions due to severe storms and staffing shortages. These challenges led to numerous flight delays and cancellations on November 28, causing travel chaos for many passengers. The FAA’s decision to implement a ground delay program resulted in an average delay of 18 minutes for inbound flights, as airlines scrambled to manage the impacts of the weather and reduced air traffic control staffing amidst a government shutdown.

Storms and Staffing Shortages Cause Major Flight Disruptions at DFW Airport

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) experienced significant disruptions on November 28, 2025, due to severe storms and staffing shortages. These issues resulted in numerous flight delays and cancellations, affecting travelers both locally and nationwide.

Flight Delays and Cancellations

On November 28, 2025, DFW Airport faced substantial operational challenges. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented a ground delay program, leading to an average delay of 18 minutes for inbound flights. This measure was taken to manage the reduced staffing levels and ensure safe operations. Passengers were advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on their flights.

Impact of Severe Weather

Severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and lightning, significantly impacted flight operations at DFW Airport. The FAA’s ground delay program caused all flights bound for DFW to be delayed from taking off at their departure airports. Additionally, both DFW and Love Field experienced departures being delayed by an average of 15 minutes.

Staffing Shortages Amid Government Shutdown

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown contributed to staffing shortages at air traffic control facilities, including those at DFW Airport. As a response, the FAA implemented flight reductions at major airports to manage these shortages. Airlines adjusted their operations accordingly, with some offering rebooking options for affected passengers.

Background Context

DFW Airport is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, serving millions of passengers annually. The combination of severe weather and staffing shortages has highlighted the vulnerabilities in the aviation sector, especially during peak travel periods. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about their flight statuses and plan accordingly to mitigate potential disruptions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What caused the flight delays and cancellations at DFW Airport on November 28, 2025?

The disruptions were due to severe storms and staffing shortages at air traffic control facilities, leading to a ground delay program and subsequent flight delays and cancellations.

How long were the average delays for flights arriving at DFW Airport?

Inbound flights experienced an average delay of 18 minutes due to the ground delay program implemented by the FAA.

What is the impact of the government shutdown on air traffic control staffing?

The government shutdown has led to staffing shortages at air traffic control facilities, including those at DFW Airport, affecting flight operations and leading to flight reductions at major airports.

How can travelers stay informed about their flight statuses during such disruptions?

Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on their flights and to plan accordingly to mitigate potential disruptions.

Key Features of the Event

Feature Details
Location Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Dallas, Texas
Date November 28, 2025
Causes Severe storms and staffing shortages due to the U.S. government shutdown
Impacts Flight delays and cancellations; average delay of 18 minutes for inbound flights
Recommendations for Travelers Check with airlines for the latest updates and plan accordingly to mitigate disruptions


Now Happening on X

  • @WFAA (November 24, 2025, 10:41 AM) A large police presence is reported in Downtown Dallas with some areas blocked off due to an officer-involved shooting, according to officials. View on X
  • @CBSNewsTexas (November 24, 2025, 12:31 PM) Two people are dead and multiple injured after a shooting in Downtown Dallas; a Dallas police officer shot and killed the suspect. View on X
  • @KRLD (November 24, 2025, 11:37 AM) A huge police presence flooded Downtown Dallas overnight, with reports of up to two people killed and two injured; official word from Dallas Police is pending. View on X
  • @CBSNewsTexas (November 24, 2025, 11:02 AM) Police are investigating a shooting involving an officer in Downtown Dallas, with no details yet on the number of people involved, circumstances, or officer injuries. View on X
  • @DallasExpress (November 26, 2025, 2:43 PM) Dallas Police Department’s efforts to combat violent crime are hampered by a chronic officer shortage, and the city has not met voter-mandated standards from Proposition U passed last year. View on X
  • @mytexasdaily (November 24, 2025, 11:38 AM) Dallas police responded to multiple incidents, including a robbery and a stabbing. View on X
  • @DallasBizNews (November 29, 2025, 10:45 AM) Responders have had 2,700 encounters with neighbors seeking help and diverted 600 emergency 911 calls. View on X
  • @XDS_Girl (November 23, 2025, 7:21 PM) Criticism of Governor Greg Abbott and state officials for failing to address issues affecting Texans. View on X

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Significant Traffic Surge Predicted at DFW Airport
Severe Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Hit North Texas
Severe Weather and Staffing Issues Disrupt Texas Airports
Severe Thunderstorms Disrupt North Texas Airports
Severe Storms Disrupt Operations at Dallas Airports
North Texas Faces Power Outages After Severe Storms
Severe Thunderstorm Disrupts DFW Area, Thousands Without Power
Central Texas Hit by Catastrophic Flash Flooding
Severe Thunderstorm and Flash Flood Warnings in North Texas
North Texas Prepares for a Hot and Dry Week Ahead

STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER

The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

Advertising Opportunity:

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Sign Up Now and get your local business listed!