Here's What You Can Expect At US Airports After The Government Shutdown Ends

On Monday, November 11, the United States Senate passed a bill that could end the longest government shutdown in American history. As the bill moves to the House of Representatives for review, travelers and federal employees are keen to see the government back up in running again. Due to the impacts of the shutdown, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has cut down flights in major airports by nearly 10%, leaving 40 major U.S. airports facing intense flight cancellations and reductions. Airports have also seen a shortage in air traffic controllers due to the lack of pay for federal workers during this time, leaving travelers with safety concerns amid the chaos.

While airports are relieved by the impending resolution, they warn travelers that things will not revert to everyday functioning immediately. In a statement from Airlines for America, the association expressed appreciation for the Senate for working to end the shutdown, but preemptively warned travelers that things will not return to normal immediately, noting, "Airlines' reduced flight schedules cannot immediately bounce back to full capacity right after the government reopens. It will take time, and there will be residual effects for days." Airlines for America continued the statement by hoping for a swift resolution from the government so they can return to normal as soon as possible.

With the holidays just around the corner, U.S. airports could still be even worse this Thanksgiving season. While this may be unfortunate news for travelers with incoming travel plans, the FAA assures travelers that these measures are ultimately about the safety of their passengers. It is not yet clear when exactly airports will be back to normal, but it seems like it could take days or weeks. While flights should eventually return to regular functioning, travelers should not expect normalcy as soon as the shutdown is concluded.

This month, be flexible with your plans and prepare for flight cancellations, delays, and inevitable holiday travel chaos if you plan to fly. Travelers should be familiar with what they should do if their flight gets cancelled, because, should you opt not to rebook your flight after, you are entitled to a refund. Most importantly, if you are flying during the shutdown or afterwards, arrive at the airport with patience and kindness for essential airport employees.