Despite the government shutting down, most airport operations are expected to continue as usual. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers and air traffic controllers are considered essential employees and therefore still have to show up to work, though they will not be paid until the shutdown ends.
The longer the shutdown continues, the more unpredictable the situation may become. In the 2019 government shutdown, some TSA agents called out sick at higher rates, leading to staffing shortages that created longer waits at some airport security checkpoints. High rates of unscheduled absences among air traffic controllers also led to hundreds of flight delays and a brief ground stop at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.
Here’s what you should know if you have travel planned in the near future.
Is TSA still operating during the government shutdown?
Yes. On Oct. 1, 2025, TSA posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the agency is prepared to continue screening 2.5 million passengers per day, but warned that the shutdown could mean longer wait times at airports.
Is it safe to fly during the shutdown?
Generally, yes. Passengers are being screened and air traffic controllers are still working. As absences rise, that could force some workers to work longer hours or extra shifts, which strains the entire system and could lead to disruptions.
The Federal Aviation Administration will slow down landings and takeoffs if the system is overwhelmed and staffing shortages make it unsafe to fly. That could mean more flight delays and cancellations.
How you can prepare for air travel right now
While the situation will change day by day, there are a few things you can do to protect your plans if you’re flying soon.
Arrive early. In case security screening lines are longer than usual, give yourself extra time.
Use Trusted Traveler programs. TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and CLEAR+ offer alternatives to the general security line or customs line that may move faster.
Renew your passport. If your passport is close to expiring, go ahead and start the renewal process. This could help you avoid delays and keep your trip on schedule.
Consider travel insurance. If an airport delay or flight cancellation could cost you a lot of money (for example, if you might miss a cruise or you wouldn’t be able to pay for an extra hotel night), you might want to make sure you have travel insurance, either through a standalone policy or through a credit card with travel insurance. This insurance can help you get reimbursed for costs incurred during delays, interruptions and cancellations. Check the fine print and know what’s required in case you need to gather documentation, purchase essentials and submit a claim along your journey.
Keep checking your flights. Sign up for text alerts, download your airline’s mobile app and keep your phone charged in case a notification comes through from the airline. If you find yourself with a delay on departure, you could simply leave later for the airport so you aren’t waiting at the gate.
Pack snacks. If you do encounter delays, make sure you have the fuel you need to wait it out. Bring extra snacks along and an empty water bottle in your bag.
If you have international travel, also be prepared for extra queues at customs and border patrol when you get back to the U.S. And if you have the flexibility, you may consider rescheduling your trip for a later date, driving instead of flying or changing airports.
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