The prospect of a government shutdown is casting a shadow over Thanksgiving travel plans for millions. As this busy holiday approaches, the potential for delays and disruptions looms large.
Impact of Government Shutdown on Thanksgiving Travel
The Thanksgiving holiday is already one of the busiest times for air travel in the United States. Last year, the TSA screened nearly 3.09 million passengers on the Sunday after Thanksgiving alone.
Current Staffing Issues
During this time, tens of thousands of air traffic controllers and TSA agents may work without pay due to an ongoing government shutdown. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported a significant increase in employee absences, leading to a reduction in flight capacity.
- Airline traffic is expected to decrease by 10% across 40 locations.
- Major airports in cities like Orlando, Los Angeles, Houston, and New York City are experiencing delays.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged that these staffing interruptions are likely to cause “additional disruptions” during the holiday season.
Potential Consequences of Continued Shutdown
The continuing shutdown could worsen the situation for travelers. Aviation experts like William J. McGee of the American Economic Liberties Project warn about a domino effect where delays lead to further disruptions across the network.
- Expect longer TSA lines and potential flight cancellations.
- Banking on air traffic controllers and TSA agents missing more work due to financial stress is realistic.
What if the Shutdown Ends?
If the government reopens right before Thanksgiving, experts predict that travel issues may persist. McGee notes that flight operations may take time to stabilize after any sudden changes.
- Airlines typically operate near capacity, and passengers exchanging flights may find fewer options.
- Some air traffic controllers may require retraining, prolonging recovery efforts.
Advice for Travelers
Despite the uncertain situation, travel expert Katy Nastro encourages maintaining travel plans. She suggests booking flights early and considering options that allow for flexibility, such as flight credits.
- Choose nonstop flights to minimize transfer risks.
- Schedule early departures and allow plenty of time for security checks.
While safety remains a priority for the FAA, travelers need to prepare for potential inconveniences this Thanksgiving. Advanced planning may help mitigate the challenges posed by the ongoing government shutdown.
