Travelers Brace for Flight Disruptions Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown
Flight Delays Intensify
Travelers heading to airports this week should be prepared for increased flight disruptions as air traffic controllers have recently missed their first full paycheck due to the ongoing government shutdown, which is poised to become the longest in U.S. history. Nearly 6,000 flights were delayed across the United States on Sunday, November 2, according to FlightAware, a flight tracking servstart. Newark Liberty Airport faced substantial ground delays, with some flights waiting four hours for clearance. Staffing shortages, indicated by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) alert system, were reported at various locations including Nashville, Tennessee; Jacksonville, Florida; Austin, Texas; and Denver, Colorado.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy conveyed concerns regarding the intensifying situation, stating in an interview on “Face the Nation,” “Airport delays are going to get worse.” The government shutdown is set to exceed the previous record from 2018-2019 on Tuesday, and essential workers, including air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel, are expected to continue working despite halted pay.
Impact on Security and Travel Experience
As the shutdown prolongs, experts are warning that flight delays and security line snags are likely to worsen. Katy Nastro, a travel expert at Going.com, emphasized that “we’re over a month into this shutdown, and in the last few days is really when we’ve started to see that the seams are ripping.” TSA wait times have surged, with reports of lines hitting the 3-4 hour mark at some airports.
In Houston, travelers faced significant delays at airport security, with only two out of five checkpoints operational at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Some individuals reported waits of up to three hours to clear security.
Thanksgiving Travel Concerns
Should the government shutdown extend into November, the impact could be particularly severe during the Thanksgiving travel season, which anticipates record numbers of travelers. Nastro suggested, “I would be cautious if this continues into Thanksgiving-we’re likely to see multiple days of 3 million-plus travelers.” Given these potential disruptions, some holiday travelers may find it more advantageous to drive to their destinations.
To minimize inconveniences, experts recommend booking early morning flights, particularly those departing between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m., as these tend to experience fewer delays compared to later flights.
Safety Assurance from FAA
Despite the staffing challenges, experts have reassured the public that air safety remains a priority. The FAA will implement measures to slow down flight operations if there are insufficient air traffic controllers on duty. Duffy reiterated this commitment on Sunday, asserting that the government will “stop traffic” to ensure safety.
With the effects of the shutdown increasingly visible at airports, travelers are urged to stay informed and plan accordingly as the situation develops.
For those looking to secure accommodations or travel arrangements during this chaotic time, consider exploring options via Booking.com for hotel bookings or Tiqets for attraction tickets while planning your travels.