How To Navigate The Government Shutdown’s Impact On Air Travel

The government shutdown’s impact on air travel is expected to continue having major and potentially dangerous consequences in the United States.

Air traffic controllers — though essential government workers — are working without pay. Those clocking in anticipate receiving back pay. However, CBS News detailed in its October 7 coverage that federal officials have recently documented low staffing at an increased number of air traffic control facilities.

Air traffic control facilities nationwide are feeling the strain. Also, flight hubs that have experienced the impacts of the controller shortage include Hollywood Burbank Airport (California), Newark Liberty International (New Jersey), Chicago O’Hare International Airport (Illinois), and Denver International Airport (Colorado), among others.

FlightAware, a flight-tracking website, has recorded “total delays within, into, or out of” the U.S. According to the source, October 5 saw over 5,200 delays, October 6 had over 6,100, and October 7 had over 3,500.

What Else Is There To Know?

The latest government shutdown began October 1. Some of the U.S.’ biggest and most well-known carriers have experienced flight delays due to the government shutdown. These include American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. The widespread strain and havoc affecting the air travel industry and its federal workers subsequently impacts all travelers, including those traveling internationally to, from, and through the U.S., as well as those flying for business or leisure.

How Can Travelers Best Navigate Changes In Air Travel Caused By The Government Shutdown?

Travelers can take steps to save themselves time and stress as the government shutdown continues to affect air travel. Some tips could make the difference between a smooth trip and a missed flight.

Stay informed through your airline and the airports you’re traveling through. The airline will dispense information about flight delays, cancellations, refunds, and gate changes. Airports may share larger-scale information, such as security delays, on their websites or social media accounts. Notably, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents are also government workers impacted by the shutdown.

Also, flyers should plan to spend additional time navigating the airport, as worker shortages will contribute to longer wait times. Patience will be needed, as airports in general could be more congested. If planning to fly out of one of the U.S.’ busiest airports, or one that has already disclosed that it’s experiencing strain, consider traveling from a different flight hub, or booking a flexible ticket.

The post How To Navigate The Government Shutdown’s Impact On Air Travel appeared first on Travel Noire.