Air travel has become increasingly unpredictable as the government shutdown continues to strain airport operations across the United States. Security lines at major airports have already stretched far longer than usual, with some travelers reporting multi-hour waits during peak times. Terminal staffing, federal support roles, and certain operational functions have all slowed down, and these delays compound quickly as the day progresses. With the busy Thanksgiving period approaching, the impact is expected to grow significantly if the shutdown remains unresolved.
For travelers who must fly during this period, preparation is critical. The shutdown affects nearly every stage of the travel experience, from arriving at the airport to clearing security and eventually boarding. Even after takeoff, delays on the tarmac or at connecting airports can create additional challenges. The goal for travelers should be to reduce points of friction wherever possible by planning ahead, adjusting expectations, and building flexibility into their itineraries. Below is a detailed guide outlining clear and practical steps to help travelers navigate the current air travel climate.
Preparing for Shutdown-Related Delays
Travelers should first determine whether their trip is necessary. Given the current conditions, avoiding air travel entirely is often the most reliable option. Holiday travel complicates matters further, and Thanksgiving week is already one of the busiest periods of the year. If the shutdown continues, every component of the travel system will experience heightened pressure. Airports that typically handle heavy volumes, such as those in the New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Texas regions, will likely see some of the most severe slowdowns.
If the trip cannot be postponed, picking the right travel day is an effective way to avoid the worst congestion. Fridays and Sundays consistently rank as the busiest days for air travel, and these days, should be avoided if at all possible. These patterns are intensified during a shutdown because fewer resources are available to manage the usual rush. Travelers who need to fly should focus on weekdays or less popular travel windows, which may offer a smoother experience.
What to Expect at the Airport
Once at the airport, travelers should expect delays at nearly every checkpoint. Security lines may move more slowly due to reduced staffing. Boarding could be delayed because aircraft may be waiting for available personnel or for clearance to push back. Tarmac delays are increasingly common as airports struggle to maintain normal operations with fewer employees in critical roles.
Preparing for these delays is essential. Travelers should arrive significantly earlier than usual, adding at least an additional hour to their typical schedule. Bringing food, water, and fully charged devices will make any extended wait more manageable. Using the restroom before boarding is also helpful, as tarmac delays can create long periods without access to facilities.
Actionable Shutdown Travel Advice
- Avoid flying unless it is absolutely necessary. Shutdown related delays will only grow as the holiday season approaches.
- Skip peak travel days such as Fridays and Sundays. These days already experience heavy congestion that worsens during a shutdown.
- Prepare for long tarmac delays. Charge devices, bring food and drinks, and use the bathroom before boarding.
- Choose nonstop flights whenever possible. This reduces the risk of missed connections and unexpected overnight delays.
- Fly early in the morning. Early flights are far less affected by cascading delays that develop throughout the day.
- Use TSA PreCheck or Clear if you are already enrolled. These programs help shorten time spent in long security lines.
- Arrive much earlier than normal. Add at least one extra hour to your usual airport arrival time.
- Keep medications, valuables, and important items in your carry on. Checked luggage may be delayed due to limited staff.
- Have backup travel plans ready. Know alternate routes, airports, and potential rebooking options.
- Pack extra snacks and entertainment for children. Airport concessions may have long lines or limited availability.
- Download entertainment at home. Airport Wi Fi will be unreliable during crowds and may slow to a crawl.
- Expect slower baggage delivery after landing. Ground operations are often affected by federal staffing shortages.
- Monitor airport updates on your travel day. Airports regularly post real time operational changes on their social channels.
- Consider driving for regional trips. For routes under six to eight hours, driving may be faster and more predictable.
Bonus Pro Travel Tip from @MilesMadeEasy
Frequent flyer expert @MilesMadeEasy recommends opting into Touchless ID lanes—available at select U.S. airports with Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, and United Airlines. These biometric lanes allow travelers to verify identity without showing physical documents, cutting down time at security.
Touchless ID is available at major hubs such as Atlanta (ATL), Washington D.C. (DCA), Denver (DEN), Los Angeles (LAX), Seattle (SEA), Portland (PDX), and Salt Lake City (SLC). To enroll, travelers must have TSA PreCheck and passport details stored in their frequent flyer profiles before opting in.
Additionally, check the National Airspace System Status tool for real-time information on ground delays, ground stops, and airport closures. It offers a snapshot of expected durations and reasons for each disruption, helping travelers anticipate potential problems before arriving at the airport.
10 Worst Airports for Security Delays
Planning Ahead for Holiday Travel
Travelers preparing for Thanksgiving and the winter holiday season should stay informed as conditions continue to change. Even short flights can be heavily delayed due to staffing shortages at both departure and arrival airports. Building flexibility into travel plans, such as leaving earlier in the week or planning additional buffer days, can help reduce the stress of last-minute disruptions.
Families traveling with children should expect longer days at airports and plan accordingly. Bringing familiar snacks, offline entertainment, and chargers can make extended waits easier to manage. Travelers should also prepare for the possibility of overnight delays by packing essentials in their carry-on bags, including basic toiletries and changes of clothing.
As the shutdown continues, conditions may shift rapidly. Staying informed and adjusting plans proactively will help travelers navigate the most affected travel period of the year with greater confidence.
