U.S. Federal Aviation Administration sent this bulletin at 10/07/2026 03:44 PM EDT
Week of October 5, 2026
Columbus Day Flight Forecast
The summer travel season is over,but the FAA is still expecting busy skies for the Columbus Day holiday weekend. More than 55,000 flights are expected on Thursday, Oct. 8, as travelers head out to their autumnal destinations. And remember, unruly passengersdon’t fly!
Southwest Florida Air Traffic Controllers Get Latest Upgrades
Air traffic controllers at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers have made the change from paper strips to Electronic Flight Strips (EFS). EFS increase safety and efficiency by providing real-time updates and streamlining the flight-planning process. RSW is the 24th airport to receive EFS.
For information on other nationwide upgrades as part of the Brand New Air Traffic Control System (BNATCS), check out our Modern Skies website.
This week’s guest Weather Squad forecaster is Caroline Castora with Gulf Coast News out of Fort Myers.
Tropical Storm Isaias is forecast to become the Atlantic’s first hurricane this year, impacting areas from New Orleans to Fort Myers. When storms arise, the FAA uses a variety of strategies to get travelers to their destinations safely. NOAA provides critical forecast data that helps the FAA prepare for any impacts weather may have on operations. Our highly trained air traffic controllers work around the clock, in different types of facilities, to orchestrate the safe and efficient movement of thousands of flights each day.
Remember, the FAA doesn’t cancel flights. Check with your airline for the status of your flight and visit fly.faa.gov for the status of all U.S. airports.
Balloon Fiesta is a No Drone Zone
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is in full swing until Oct. 11. As a reminder, the Fiesta is a No Drone Zone. Drone pilots and general aviation pilots should check Temporary Flight Restrictions before taking flight.
ICYMI
The FAA announced it awarded $12 million to 19 companies for drone research and testing projects that will help safely expand drone operations in the National Airspace System. The FAA made these awards through the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Program. Read more in our recent press release.
