Delta CEO Ed Bastian Optimistic About Holiday Travel

Image: A Delta Air Lines A321neo aircraft in flight. (Photo Credit: Delta Air Lines)
Image: A Delta Air Lines A321neo aircraft in flight. (Photo Credit: Delta Air Lines)
Janeen Christoff
by Janeen Christoff
Last updated: 1:20 PM ET, Sat November 15, 2025

Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian provided a positive update on holiday travel following the U.S. government's reopening. 

Speaking on CBS Mornings, Bastian assured customers the airline system would return to normal by the weekend, promising safe and reliable service for Thanksgiving travelers.

“The system should return to normal by the weekend…and normal for us is an incredibly safe, incredibly reliable, great experience,” Bastian said. “Thanksgiving is going to be a great holiday period of travel.” 

In a statement, Delta highlighted that it continues to operate the vast majority of its flight schedule in coordination with the FAA. 

Delta confirmed it is operating most flights in coordination with the FAA. FAA-directed cancellations concluded through November 14, with normal operations expected and minimal air traffic control constraints anticipated.

The airline is offering enhanced flexibility to affected customers, allowing them to change, cancel or refund flights, including Basic Economy fares, without penalties. 

Passengers experiencing disruptions in impacted markets can take advantage of these travel waivers.

Delta encourages customers to visit delta.com or use the Fly Delta app for current flight status updates and rebooking options during the holiday travel season.


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Janeen Christoff

Janeen Christoff

Managing Editor, Custom Content

Janeen Christoff caught the travel bug while living in London, England. After two years on the road, she settled in Los Angeles...

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