If Congress fails to reach an agreement on a short-term government funding bill, the United States government will shut down on Oct. 1. This will result in “nonessential” government employees ceasing to work, affecting the lives of everyday Americans. U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg recently discussed how the shutdown will impact the travel industry, expressing concerns about the potential disruption and danger. A survey conducted by the U.S. Travel Association and Ipsos revealed that six in ten Americans would cancel or avoid air travel in the event of a shutdown. But is such a response necessary? Let’s explore how air travel could be affected by a potential shutdown.
Will flights be delayed or canceled during a shutdown?
If a funding deal is not reached, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) staff members will still be required to work as essential employees. However, these employees will not be paid until the government reopens, which can impact their morale and ability to perform their duties. The uncertainty of when they will be paid may lead some workers to not report for duty, potentially triggering flight delays and cancellations. Additionally, programs dedicated to training new employees will be halted, meaning workers in the middle of these programs will be furloughed.
Should I cancel or change my flight?
Logistically, you don’t necessarily need to cancel your trip if there’s a shutdown because airport employees will still be expected to work. However, it’s important to consider that workers will be reporting to duty without pay, which may lead to disruptions in travel plans. If you’re able to do so and want to play it safe, rescheduling your trip might be a good option. Keep in mind that the duration and severity of the shutdown are uncertain. If you decide to proceed with your travel plans, arriving at the airport early and being understanding of potential delays can help alleviate stress for both travelers and TSA officers.
How have past shutdowns affected the air travel industry?
Previous government shutdowns, such as the one in late 2018, had a significant impact on the air travel industry. Federal workers who continued working experienced low morale, resulting in many calling out sick. Some airports even had to close, while others faced extensive delays. While it may not be necessary to cancel your trip at this point, be aware that it could take longer to reach your destination if a shutdown occurs.
When will I know if a shutdown is happening?
The deadline for passing a funding package to avoid a shutdown is Saturday night at midnight, as the new fiscal year begins on Sunday, October 1. If no progress is made by then, it can be assumed that the shutdown will occur. Stay updated on the latest developments to prepare accordingly.