Government Shutdown Impacts More Than 3.2 Million Airline Passengers-Here Are 6 T+L Editor Tips on How to Travel Smarter

"With the government shutdown pushing into its fifth week, travelers are feeling the effects at airports across the country. More than 3.2 million airline passengers have experienced a delay due to the shutdown, industry group Airlines for America confirmed to Travel + Leisure. These delays come as staffing shortages continue to plague air traffic controllers, the Associated Press reported. While these employees are considered essential and required to continue working during the shutdown, they are not currently receiving a paycheck."

"More than 2 million passengers typically travel through airports in the United States every day, so getting there early to beat the crowds is essential. In fact, it was the top tip from every T+L editor. In other words, this is not the time to test the viral " airport theory" in which people head to the terminal at the very last minute."

The government shutdown has pushed into its fifth week, producing airport impacts nationwide and contributing to more than 3.2 million delayed airline passengers. Air-traffic staffing shortages persist as controllers remain essential but are working without pay, increasing risk of delays and cancellations. More than two million passengers travel through U.S. airports daily, so arriving early and prepared helps reduce stress and missed connections. Travelers should add buffer time to itineraries, consider taking the first flight of the day, pack snacks, allot extra time for connections, create backup plans for delays or cancellations, and use websites and apps to monitor flights.

Read at Travel + Leisure