Despite the closure of the government, most of the airport works is expected to continue as usual. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers and air traffic controllers are considered an essential employee and therefore still has to show work, though they will not be paid until the shutdown is over.
As long as Shut down Continuing, the more unexpected the situation may be. In the 2019 government shutdown, some TSA agents called the sick at higher rates, which led to a shortage of staff, which waited for some airport security checkpoints. High rates of unlocking absence among air traffic controllers also resulted in the delay in flights and a short ground stop at Lagardia Airport in New York.
What should you know if you have planned a plan in the near future?
Is the TSA still running during the government’s closure?
Yes On October 1, 2025, the TSA posted on the X (formerly Twitter) that the agency is ready to continue the screening of 2.5 million passengers daily, but it has been warned that shutdown can mean more waiting hours at the airports.
Is it safe to fly during the shutdown?
Generally, yes. Passengers are being screened and air traffic controllers are still working. As the absence increases, it may force some workers to work on more hours or extra shifts, which can pressure the entire system and cause obstacles.
The Federal Aviation Administration will slow down the Landing and Tech Office if the system is overwhelmed and makes the staff shortage unsafe. This can mean more flight delays and cancellations.
How can you prepare for air travel right now
Although the situation will change day by day, you can do some things to protect your plans if you are flying soon.
Arrive soon. If the security screening lines are longer than normal, give yourself extra time.
Use reliable passenger program. tsa precheckFor, for, for,. Global enrollment And Clean+ Offer alternatives to normal security line or customs line that can move faster.
Renew your passport. If your passport is near expiry, go ahead and Start the process of renewal. This can help you avoid delay and keep your journey on schedule.
Consider travel insurance. If you can spend a lot of money on the airport delay or flight cancellation (for example, if you may lose cruise or you can’t pay any extra hotel night), you would like to make sure you have travel insurance, either by one Stand Loan Policy Or through a Credit card with travel insurance. This insurance can help you pay for the costs of Delay, obstacles and cancellation. Check out fine prints and know what you need to collect documents, buy the necessary goods and make a claim along with your journey.
Keep checking your flights. Sign up for text alerts, download your airline’s mobile app and charge your phone if there is a notification from the airline. If you find yourself delayed in departure, you may leave for the airport later so you are not waiting at the gate.
Pack. If you delay the encounter, make sure you have fuel that you need to wait. Bring extra saline and empty bottle of water into your bag.
If you have an international trip, when you return to the United States and if you have flexibility, you can consider the additional row of additional row on customs and border patrols, you may consider your journey back to resetting, flying or changing airports instead.
