Plan Ahead

Typically, government shutdowns affect air travel more than hotels or car rentals. There are two specific issues for flyers:

• Flight delays due to air traffic control because air traffic controllers call in sick at a higher rate because they’re not being paid.
• Longer waits at security because TSA agents call in sick at a higher rate because they’re not being paid.

So, what do you do?

#1 Piece of advice is simple: fly earlier in the day whenever you can. Air traffic control staffing shortages are much more likely to affect flights in the afternoon and evening. Additionally, taking nonstop flights reduces the chance of being delayed or stranded.

#2 - Arrive early at the airport: TSA checkpoint lines will likely be longer because of staffing shortages. Flight delays and cancellations will also cause backups at baggage check in counters. 

If you must fly in the evening, have a backup plan!