"The flight was supposed to leave at 6:55 a.m. We didn't end up leaving almost to like an hour later. The captain came on and told us that we were still waiting for about 60 people to still come through security," Hernandez said.
Keisha Holmes said she heard about the reduction of flights, so she took extra cautions.
"We gave ourselves a little extra time," said Holmes.
The FAA and DOT made the decision because of safety concerns. Air traffic controllers are calling out because of the government shutdown.
Officials at Raleigh-Durham International Airport said they want travelers to prepare.
"I think it's wait and see how the airlines manage that process. There will be impact, there is no question. I can't speak to how the FAA will manage air traffic; we don't control that," said William C. Sandifer, A.A.E., Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer.
Flight cancellations begin Friday
The DOT says the reduction will start in phases. A 4% reduction in operations will start Friday, and will ramp up to 6% by Nov. 11, then 8% two days after, and 10% by Nov. 14.
Passengers are concerned about their flights returning after the holiday weekend.
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"We are flying out of Miami, so that is a fear of ours. They did say anticipate like a four-hour delay," said Holmes.
"I keep hearing now that it's all delays, delays, delays, delays. I was like vigilant to keep looking to make sure I was on the app," said Hernandez.
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According to government officials, airlines will be required to issue "full refunds." They are not required to cover secondary costs, such as rentals or hotels. The order does not require a reduction in international flights, hat will depend on the carrier.