Impact on Travel:

The air traffic controllers’ staff shortages, caused by the shutdown, resulted in ground stops, delays and flight cancellations at several airports nationwide. Longer security screening times were also reported. Following the FAA restrictions, approximately 3,500 to 4,000 flights were affected daily as the reductions were increased. Several carriers, including United Airlines, Delta, JetBlue and American Airlines, offered flexibility options for travellers with travel plans affected by the FAA measure. 

After the end of the shutdown, residual disruptions to air travel across the U.S. are still possible, but most operations have normalised. Flights to rural areas may take longer to resume as smaller airports work to restore federal funding.

Advice:

• Monitor FAA notices for flight updates. 
• Contact booking agents for possible refunds or rebooking. 
• Allow extra time at airports for security, customs and other checks. 
• Consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck to reduce waiting times.
• Use airline apps and airport websites for real-time flight information and verify itineraries with carriers before departure. 
• For land travel, check border wait times with Canada and Mexico.