Government Shutdown Travel Impact

As the shutdown extends into its sixth week, travel systems across the U.S. are showing growing strain. Checkpoints, flights and national-land operations are all under atypical pressure.

Travel Status at a Glance (Day 37)

Airport Security

TSA – Working Without Pay

CRITICAL: TSA agents continue working without pay. Staff shortages and “blue-flu” absences have been reported. Expect longer wait times and possible checkpoint closures.

Leisure & Public Lands

National Parks & Museums: Significantly Impacted

Many National Park Service sites are closed or operating at minimal capacity. Visitor centres and services are halted. Major museum operations are similarly affected.

Air Travel

FAA Air Traffic Control: Large-scale Delays

The Federal Aviation Administration has identified staffing shortages at 20-40% of major airports and will reduce flight capacity by ~10% across 40 high-volume markets starting Friday. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Rail Travel

Amtrak: Operating Normally

Amtrak is a corporation, not directly funded by annual appropriations in the same way. Services are running, though federal grant-program expansion is paused.

Official Department of Defense (DoD) Travel Feed

Live feed of verified information from the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) covering policy and official travel guidance for DoD personnel.

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Please confirm specific plans with your airline, airport or applicable military command. This page is a guide, not a substitute for official communication.