A prolonged US government shutdown could significantly affect travel plans, potentially leading to longer airport wait times, flight delays, and cancellations. The shutdown commenced after President Trump and Congress were unable to agree on funding for government services, resulting in a majority of airport employees working without pay.
Geoff Freeman, president of the US Travel Association, warned that a prolonged shutdown would likely result in longer TSA lines, flight interruptions, and poorly maintained national parks.
Flying During a Shutdown
Travelers can still fly during the shutdown, especially in its early days when operations may appear normal. Approximately 13,200 air traffic controllers and over 61,000 TSA employees will continue to work. However, as time passes and workers remain unpaid, travelers may encounter longer security lines and more flight disruptions. This issue is compounded by current staffing shortages within both the TSA and the FAA, which include a deficit of about 3,000 air traffic controllers. In past shutdowns, many TSA agents called in sick or left their jobs due to unpaid work.
Safety Concerns
The ongoing shutdown raises safety concerns as stressed air traffic controllers work with outdated and unreliable equipment, exacerbating an already critical staffing shortage. Reports from the previous long shutdown indicated that many controllers worked excessive hours, and the challenges they face could threaten traveler safety and overall security.
Alternative Travel Methods
Amtrak has confirmed that its passenger trains will remain operational, maintaining over 300 daily routes across the United States. All travelers planning to use Amtrak can rest assured that services will continue uninterrupted.
International Travel
Ports of entry will remain open, as per the Department of Homeland Security’s contingency plan. Approximately 63,000 Customs and Border Protection workers are expected to report to duty, managing border traffic effectively. While the US Citizenship and Immigration Services operates primarily on application fees, the shutdown does affect the E-Verify program, used by employers to confirm new hires’ eligibility to work in the United States.
Museums and National Parks
Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo should remain open to the public until at least October 6. In terms of national parks, they will generally stay accessible to visitors, although some areas may close depending on resource damage or maintenance issues during the shutdown.
The current circumstances present travelers with a variety of uncertainties, with potential impacts on transportation safety and accessibility.