As the holiday season approaches, travelers are being warned of possible delays and disruptions due to the impending shutdown of the US government, set to begin on December 21. The shutdown, caused by a lack of federal funding, could lead to furloughs and operational halts across several government agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and air traffic control, raising concerns about the smooth operation of holiday travel.
Shutdown Threatens Holiday Travel
Congress must pass a funding package by midnight on December 21 to prevent the shutdown, which would freeze government services and affect everything from national parks to federal agencies. If no deal is reached, air travel could be among the most heavily impacted sectors, with potential delays at airports across the country.
TSA and Air Travel at Risk
TSA Administrator David P. Pekoske has stated that while most TSA personnel are expected to remain on duty during the shutdown, the agency is preparing for longer wait times at airport security checkpoints. A similar shutdown in 2019 saw significant disruptions as more TSA agents and air traffic controllers missed work, resulting in long security lines and delayed flights.
The TSA is anticipating screening up to 40 million passengers between December 19 and January 2, making this holiday travel season one of the busiest in recent years. With the shutdown looming, travelers should expect potential delays and longer lines at airports, particularly if the shutdown continues into the new year.
Potential Impact on Other Services
Beyond airport security, other services critical to travel could also be affected. Passport and visa processing may face delays, although the State Department has indicated that consulates will continue operations if they have sufficient funding. However, if the shutdown persists long enough to deplete these funds, extended delays in passport issuance are possible.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, like TSA agents and air traffic controllers, are considered essential workers and will continue their duties during the shutdown. Customs processing at airports, ports, and border crossings will remain operational, but the risk of delays increases if staffing shortages or absenteeism occur.
Airlines Brace for Disruptions
Major US airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, are expecting to carry millions of passengers over the holiday period. The TSA’s warning of potential delays has prompted many travelers to adjust their expectations, with some airlines advising passengers to arrive at airports earlier than usual to accommodate potential longer wait times.
The US Travel Association has estimated that a prolonged government shutdown could cost the travel industry up to $140 million per day, further compounding the economic impact of the crisis.
Preparing for Potential Delays
While short-term disruptions are likely to be minimal, a prolonged shutdown could lead to significant delays, particularly at airports. Travelers are urged to plan for longer security lines and increased flight delays, especially if the shutdown extends into the peak holiday period.
Those planning to visit national parks or travel internationally should also be prepared for potential closures or service delays. With the shutdown’s potential to affect both domestic and international travel, it’s essential for holiday travelers to stay informed and plan ahead to minimize disruptions.
As the deadline approaches, the fate of holiday travel rests in the hands of Congress. If a funding agreement is not reached by December 21, the travel experience for millions of Americans could be marked by longer waits, higher stress, and increased uncertainty at airports across the nation.
Related topics:
Santa Monica Proper Joins Virtuoso’s Elite Network of Luxury Travel Partners
Ghana’s Tourism Success: Strategic Campaigns Boost Domestic and Diaspora Travel
Greenland’s Most Remote Arctic Areas Have Never Been More Accessible