Flying During a Government Shutdown: What You Need to Know

You already know I like to be real with you, so here’s the deal: the U.S. federal government is currently shut down, and the people who keep our skies safe (TSA agents, air traffic controllers, and other essential staff) are still working, but without pay. 

That means the system is under strain, but it doesn’t mean your flight is unsafe. If there’s any risk to passengers, your plane will not take off.The FAA’s safety standards don’t shut down just because the government did.

So if you experience ground delays, think of them as a precaution, not an inconvenience, they’re a sign that safety is still the top priority.

And even if you’re not flying during the shutdown, these tips are worth bookmarking for holiday travel or any busy travel season.

Here’s what to expect, what to watch for, and how to protect yourself:

What's Different

• Even though airports are “open,” staffing gaps are real. Expect delays, lines, and potential “slowdowns.”

• The MyTSA app (security wait times, checkpoint status) is not reliable right now — data is stale or flat-out wrong.

• Air traffic control may slow things down to manage safety, particularly if people call out sick or staff are stretched.

• The longer the shutdown drags, the more likely you’ll see ripple effects.

What You Should Do Instead

• Use FlightAware to track your flight (delays, reroutes, gate changes)

• Monitor airport socials and websites, and download your airline app.  Allow push notifications to be sent to your phone so you can get alerts in real time.

• Arrive at least an hour earlier than you usually would.  It's better to be waiting at the gate than miss the flight due to being in the TSA line.

• Travel light (less to check, less to rebook)

• Be ready for the unexpected

Get Travel Protection - But Read the Fine Print

Yes, I’ll be blunt: travel insurance is not a cure-all, especially during a shutdown. But it’s still worth it.

• Always read the “exclusions” section!  Many standard travel insurance policies exclude “government shutdowns” as a cause for delay or missed flights

• If you already have Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) or robust delay/interruption coverage, it gives you leverage.  If you're still researching, choose “delay” add-ons that reimburse you for meals, lodging, etc. if stuck.  Make sure your policy covers missed connection, trip interruption, and baggage

• Save all your notifications, emails, screenshots.  Documentation is your friend

• Use credit card protections that may give you extra coverage

Final Thoughts

You can still fly, but treat your trip like you’re going into the wild. Be ready for turbulence, both literal and figurative. Plan early, track hard, and protect as much as possible.

If you have a trip coming up and want me to help you plan contingencies or pick an insurance policy that gives you the best chance, just say the word. (Yes, I’m here for that.)

I'm having these conversations with my booked clients. 

To have an advocate in your corner for your next trip, email me today!