What to Do if Your Flight Is Delayed or Canceled During the Government Shutdown
The ongoing government shutdown has stretched beyond a month, causing serious strain on air travel as staffing shortages among air traffic controllers and security personnel disrupt operations across the United States.
Current Situation
Airports around the country are experiencing significant delays. Newark Airport in New Jersey faced delays of up to three hours on Sunday, while major hubs such as George Bush Intercontinental in Houston, Dallas Fort Worth, and Chicago O’Hare also reported widespread disruptions over the weekend.
Warnings from Experts and Workers
“The impact could grow significantly worse the longer the shutdown continues and workers go without a paycheck,”
union leaders and industry experts cautioned, stressing that more flight delays could occur if staffing issues persist.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers have continued to work without pay in recent weeks, ensuring minimal disruption under difficult circumstances.
What Passengers Should Do
- Before leaving for the airport, verify your flight status through the airline's mobile app or website.
- Consult the FAA’s online resources to check for widespread delays affecting your departure or arrival airport.
- If possible, stay at home or book a hotel rather than wait in crowded terminals when delays are confirmed.
Additional Advice
Staying informed and flexible will help travelers avoid unnecessary stress while the aviation system continues to recover from the staffing shortfall tied to the shutdown.
Author’s Summary
The prolonged shutdown has deeply strained U.S. air travel, pushing passengers to monitor flight updates closely and prepare for continued system instability.