Flights are gradually returning to normal in 2025 after disruptions, with some airlines like Air Canada expecting full restoration of regular service within 7 to 10 days after strikes or disruptions. Overall, air travel as a whole is expected to largely recover to pre-pandemic levels by 2025, though isolated disruptions continue to occur due to factors like staffing shortages, technical issues, and weather. Major airports work steadily to stabilize operations, but passengers should anticipate some cancellations and delays during recovery phases.
Current Flight Recovery Status (2025)
- Air Canada resumed operations on August 19, 2025, after a strike, with a gradual ramp-up expected to stabilize in about 7 to 10 days due to repositioning of aircraft and crew as well as mandatory maintenance checks. Some flights may be canceled during this period until schedules normalize.
- Other disruptions such as power outages at major airports (e.g., London Heathrow in early 2025) caused temporary chaos lasting days before resuming full operations.
- European flights also faced significant disruptions in mid-2025 due to staffing, technical, and weather challenges, but these are generally localized and short-term.
Long-term Outlook
- Industry analysts and airport authorities forecast that air travel levels will return to pre-pandemic norms sometime in 2025, with a fuller recovery seen as a sign of broader economic normalization post-COVID-19.
- Overall, recovery timelines vary by region, airline, and airport, influenced by ongoing geopolitical factors and operational challenges.
Summary
Flights are returning to normal progressively in 2025, with most airlines and airports targeting full operational stability and pre-pandemic capacity by year-end. Travelers, however, should still anticipate some disruptions in the near term during recovery phases.
