18 Authors Withdraw from Texas Book Festival Due to Flight Issues

At least 18 authors scheduled to participate in the Texas Book Festival this weekend have withdrawn due to “unforeseen issues, including flight challenges.” The festival organizers announced the cancellations on Friday morning, highlighting the impact of recent disruptions in air travel.

Prominent authors who had to drop out include Julia Ioffe, a finalist for the 2025 National Book Award; R.L. Stine, known for his Goosebumps series; and best-selling author Peter Swanson. The festival, which marks its 30th anniversary this year, was set to feature over 300 authors participating in various panel discussions, author talks, and book signings throughout the weekend.

The flight cancellations come as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a directive to reduce operations at major U.S. airports beginning Friday, citing safety concerns related to air traffic controllers who have not been paid during the ongoing government shutdown. Although Austin’s airport, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, is not on the FAA’s list of affected locations, aviation experts have indicated that travelers may still experience significant delays and challenges.

Organizers of the Texas Book Festival took to social media to inform attendees of the cancellations. They posted on Instagram a list of the authors who would no longer be attending and assured followers that updates would be provided as the situation develops.

The Texas Book Festival is a significant cultural event that attracts a diverse audience to the Texas Capitol area, celebrating literature and fostering discussions around various topics relevant to the literary community. Despite the withdrawals, the festival is expected to proceed with its extensive lineup of scheduled events, showcasing the work of authors and engaging readers from across the region.

As the festival continues, attendees may find themselves navigating a landscape altered by these unforeseen circumstances. With the organizers working diligently to adapt, the community remains hopeful for a successful event that upholds the spirit of literary celebration.