US Shutdown Pressures Air Travel, Risks Delays and Cancellations

The US government shutdown that began on Oct. 1, is already affecting air travel,  raising the risk of longer lines, delays, and cancellations if it continues. President Donald Trump and Congress failed to reach a funding agreement, leaving essential federal employees working without pay.

“The longer a shutdown drags on, the more likely we are to see longer TSA lines, flight delays and cancellations, national parks in disrepair, and unnecessary delays in modernizing travel infrastructure,” Geoff Freeman, president and CEO, US Travel Association, said in a statement.

More than 61,000 TSA officers and approximately 13,200 air traffic controllers remain on duty without pay. Aviation professor Jeffrey Price noted, “The system does become a little bit more brittle, and the longer this goes, the more the traveler is going to notice it.”

During the 2018–2019 shutdown—the longest at 35 days—airports experienced staffing shortages, sick calls, lawsuits, and temporary terminal closures. TSA and FAA now face existing personnel gaps, including 3,000 unfilled air traffic controller positions, increasing the risk of slowed landings and takeoffs.

Other services are also affected. The US Embassy in Mexico announced that its X account will not be updated regularly, although passport and visa services will continue “as long as the situation allows.” Mexico may also feel indirect effects. Fatigue among unpaid US staff and fewer support workers could cause delays and postponed certifications, potentially leading to unreliable schedules, missed connections, and fare pressures. CBP operations continue, but support reductions may slow secondary border procedures.

Analysts warn that a prolonged shutdown could reduce US consumer spending, cut Mexican exports, and pressure the exchange rate. The suspension of US economic data also complicates business forecasting.

The US Tour Operators Association (USTOA) warned that the shutdown could cost the travel industry US$1 billion per week. Major American airlines also cautioned that unpaid TSA workers and air traffic controllers may not report for duty, despite being classified as essential.