Public sentiment is predominantly negative regarding the government shutdown and its effect on air travel. Many express anger towards political leaders, worry about the safety implications of unpaid federal workers, particularly air traffic controllers, and frustration regarding potential travel disruptions. A smaller portion of comments reflects an assurance of safety in flying but emphasizes concerns about delays and inconvenience. Overall, there is a strong demand for accountability and resolution from government officials to prioritize public safety and the concerns of airline workers.

U.S. Government

Air Traffic Controllers

airport-codes

That’s over a month away. No one knows. Check back in a month.

lauti04

Always a chance, but usually international routes are less affected, so you should be fine.

switch8000

One minor workaround is domestic carriers fly bigger planes to reduce flights but keep up seat count.
Of course this isn’t practical for every flight

graypurpleblack

International, probably not. They're trimming domestic routes right now. I'm flying ORD-LAS and back in about 2 weeks, so I'm waiting to see what this means for me. We won't know until the airlines figure out what routes and flights they're flying with the new restrictions.

GeologistPositive

Obviously, no one here knows what willl happen with your flight 7 weeks away. 

There’s always a chance of your flight getting canceled, even without a government shutdown. 

The airline should keep you informed as the date gets closer.

lunch22

Since a percentage of domestic flights are now being canceled, yes.

Also…airports not directly impacted will be indirectly impacted if your aircraft flies into or out of one of the affected 40 airports causing ripple effects on delays.

Not sure if there is a way for anyone to know that more than 46 days in advance.   Perhaps there could be an issue flying with or without a government shutdown on a busy travel season 2 days before Christmas.  That seems more predictable.

dkwinsea

According to United, they just posted international and hub to hub travel won’t be affected. Not sure who you’re with but other airlines would likely follow suit.

Hudson11177

Even if the shutdown is over by then*** and FAA rules back to normal, that is an absolutely peak travel day, two days before Christmas. So, yes, get to the airport very early. Any flight can be canceled. The one advantage is that this is likely a "turnaround" flight. If it arrives OK, it should depart OK. But obviously no one can tell you what's going to happen that far in advance.

***If the shutdown isn't resolved by then, it will be such a shitshow that planes being canceled may be the least of your worries.

OkTechnologyb

I think you should know ahead of time.  They are discussing right now cutting back on air traffic controllers in some places.  If they do that then "yes" some flights would be cancelled.  Like I said the airlines should know that well before days before Christmas.  I know that when I was flying before and they cancelled one of my flights they sent me an email to inform me of this.  They then followed up with a phone call to me.  Fortunately, I did NOT really need the connecting flight.  I had only done the connecting flight to save $250.  I told them that since THEY cancelled the flight that they would permit me to end with the first leg of the trip and would NOT charge me extra for NOT taking the second leg of the trip.  They agreed!  (Originally if I had booked the one leg they were going to charge me $500, and if I took the second leg then the price would drop to $250.  Both airports were the same distance to where I was going.  lol.)

Maronita2025

[deleted]

Its Christmas time leaving from JFK. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

5 hours might be excessive. 4 should be plenty.

notthegoatseguy

I’m leaving next Thursday and I’m not too concerned. I sure hope the government opens up by December. 😂

Good_Magazine5758

I was just in JFK last week and TSA was no problem, normal line. However, I did lose my flight to Madrid (we flew from West Palm to JFK) on our way to JFK we were diverted due to very bad weather, were in VA sitting on the plane for 5 hrs, lost our flight to Madrid (it wasn’t a connection so we had to cancel our entire trip to Madrid because we were not gonna make it) As much as it wasn’t the airline’s fault, I do believe the fact that traffic controllers are low on staff had a lot to do with it. So honestly, we don’t know how bad TSA can get in a month.

Greedy-Opposite-4521

sdojo

Looks like the shutdown ends tomorrow or Monday. Relax.

shamiamiam

There is a nonzero chance, yes. Staffing issues, mid air collisions, flight cancellations affecting others and rippling out.

Always_travelin

There are no safety issues. TSA just might take a little longer and there may be more delays.

Gold_Telephone_7192

I’m a US air traffic controller and I will say we are not taking our job less seriously, we are not being less safe, and we are not being less caring. Safety is not less because of the shutdown. 

The only thing you have to worry about are delays. I myself am flying across the country the week of thanksgiving and I have no concerns.

EmergencyTime2859

Any decrease in the level safety involved will almost certainly still result in flying being much safer than driving to the airport or crossing a street as a pedestrian, so I wouldn’t worry too much about that. The risk of flight delays/cancellations due to ATC shortages, long lines at understaffed TSA/Customs checkpoints, etc. are all factors to consider though.

Landwarrior5150

I have no concerns. Things can happen at any time. The government shutdown isn’t going to stop me from doing the things I want to do. Hiccups while traveling is always something you have to be prepared for while traveling, that’s part of the experience.

Necessary-Catch-4795

I made it a point to fly out as soon as I heard about the shutdown. I’m currently planning on coming back by mid December but not if things are still shut down. Fuck this whole administration and all of you who voted for this

behemuthm

It's just as safe to travel as when the govt was open.

The schedule is what will be impacted - the ATC staffing issues limit the arrival and departure rates to the airports they are responsible to cover. For example, if JFK can normally accept 50 flights per hour with 5 ATC controllers, if there are only 3 on shift since two are "sick", the. The arrival rate will be reduced to 30/hour.  This reduced rate will percolate and cause delays through the US airspace.

So it's safe to fly, but expect delays - arrival, departure, TSA lines, etc.

TheZapster

jadeoracle

Safety concerns about what, specifically? Full disclosure…I’m not very smart. I don’t see how the government shutdown would make flying unsafe. Maybe someone with more knowledge can chime in with context. 


If anything I’d be worried about delays. But those worries can be mitigated.


My wife and I flew domestic a few weeks ago without issues or interruptions. We’re flying domestic again in a few days and expect the same.

frawgster

It's up to you man. Some people are going to travel regardless and some will wait. You don't need to justify why you feel unsafe to travel right now.

faeminty

Really curious what you’re worried about. Delays? That can happen any day for any number of reasons. 

tariqabjotu

I won’t fly until the shutdown is over. My concern is about being inconvenienced or stranded in an airport or having a flight canceled though, it’s not related to safety. From what I have been reading, airports are doing full ground stops if they don’t think they have a sufficient number of air traffic controllers to manage the flights.

0000GKP

Your concerns are valid but the chances of an ATC walkout is low.  There could definitely be callouts though which might result in delays.  I don't think anyone will be crashing planes to get back at Congress.

knocking_wood

Everyone says you’re fine, but literally 2 hours ago nyt posted about safety concerns. The general vibe is you’ll be fine… if flights are still in the air. So there’s that. 

ktechie28

I literally just cancelled a work trip from SeaTac to JFK. I am already an anxious traveler on a good fucking day but I cannot imagine how this doesn’t impact the safety of airplanes and that world right now. I am not willing to risk it for the biscuit. Your safety and feeling safe comes first in my books.

Quirky_Sweet_3438

I just flew spirit out of Newark to Detroit, right thru pre-check security in under 10 minutes flight took off on time and landed 15 min early.

BlindsidedNJ

I wouldn't worry about it. 

They wouldn't fly if it wasn't safe. The rate of airliner incidents compared to safe travels is so ridiculously low that it borders on paranoia to even think about it, from a statistical perspective.

You're far more likely to have an issue on your way to the airport, or have an issue on the tube in London than you are to have any safety issues on the plane.

Yes, ATC is stretched thin with the shutdown, but they wouldn't operate major international airports if there were legitimate safety concerns. They would get shutdown.

Keep your trip.

Reading_username

I’m flying to Buenos Aires next week. I flew to and from Puerto Rico last week. I’m not worried, but I also realize things may happen as the government continues to remain shut down. Whatever will happen will happen. I’m here for the ride.

pacificcoastsailing

I just flew two days ago and it was totally fine. Took a little while to board (maybe 10-15 minutes after the scheduled boarding time), but it was no big deal

Either-Caregiver-497

It's completely understandable to feel concerned when external factors might impact travel plans.

Historically, air traffic control (FAA) and TSA security screening are considered essential services and have continued operating during government shutdowns, so safety itself isn't typically compromised.

However, as others mentioned, the biggest impact is usually operational delays. This can happen due to potential staffing issues (like more agents calling out sick) leading to longer lines at security or possible air traffic control slowdowns.

Definitely keep a close eye on your flight status and give yourselves plenty of extra time at the airport. While frustrating if delays occur, it's generally considered safe to fly during these periods.

quillwaytravel

There are no safety issues. The entire system is set up to avoid safety issues.

There could be delays or issues of convenience. But no plane launches unless everything is in place for a safe flight. Same now as any other day.

QuadRuledPad

there is a variation of this post every day.

What safety concerns do you have?

Kennected

10/26 is/was yesterday where I live.....so you didn't fly?

Capital_Sink6645

I think just arrive earlier then usual and coming back from England would be no problem

JuniorReserve1560

I have flown 4 times since the shutdown and didn't notice much of a change at my local airport. Some airports have been experiencing longer than usual TSA lines and some delays.

Hangrycouchpotato

I remember there delays &amp; complications compounding with the Pandemic.  It may get worse before it gets better.  But hopefully more of a massive inconvenience vs a massive catastrophe

conceptcreature3D

Take a moment to call/write your senator and make sure they're hearing the voices of their constituents that are concerned about this.  Let them know what you think about this, whatever your political bent -

melston9380

Flying is super safe like safer than driving by a lot so that’s not problem statistically but I get that people are overly anxious about flying specifically.

turtledude100

So you are worried about a flight that won't happen for another month? A lot can change until then 🤷‍♀️

TechnicalNut17

jetpoweredbee

"The government"

/r/USdefaultism here we come :D

r_coefficient

My boss canceled her flight from DCA to LGA and took the train because of TSA issues. I'm grateful she is at the end of her travel season.  

No-Place-8047

Control the controllables. Have back up plans, make detailed itineraries with tips for your execs that you can switch out if necessary. 

My exec is flying this week. I’ve identified like 6 alternate flights leaving from different airports in the area. I’ve mapped out a train route for him too if necessary

juliacar

Well I’m an EA at NIH. Haven’t been to work in weeks. 😑🤦🏾‍♀️

kmm91162

I'm actually glad this is happening. It'll be nice to see the privileged experience a little discomfort for once! There's little you can do. Make some plan Bs and Cs but it's really out of your hands. If your privileged execs don't understand that, they're not very smart! 

Also, I'm in Chicago and can relate to your feelings of helplessness. The news is horrible every day. That said, I don't feel bad at all for highly paid execs that might have their flights canceled! Boo freaking hoo.

ThatChiGirl773

I have two of my execs going to the US over the next week (we’re in Canada). I sent them a detailed email outlining the issues and have even sourced railroad transit just in case. But have also suggested they reconsider going.

I feel for you.

quiet_confessions

Anyone planning to fly close to Thanksgiving is asking for a middair collision. I was anxious to fly personally last week. My now retired, but doing conferences boss, is planned a flight to Taiwan on the cusp of them being invaded and that was before the government shut down. If they weren't one of the smartest people I know I'd call them stupid to their face.


I think a lot of Americans are in shock right now. I'm strapped in. I don't know how you tell executives to wake the fuck up without losing your job but lots of people need to be slapped awake or something.


There's nothing you can do about the flights. They're grown adults they can make their own decisions. It's not your fault the gestapo is out. It's not your fault your executives are trying to pretend everything is normal. People are going to have to learn the hard way. We're all touching the hot stove together. 


On the personal side, I try to keep my pantry stocked like we could enter a two week lock down at any point for the past few months.

under_psychoanalyzer

One of my execs just canceled his flights for the next 2 weeks, but I don't have faith everything will be resolved by then. I had made backup plans from different airports, trains, renting a car, etc. It was paperclips and chewing gum holding those trips together.

Side rant, bc I feel you: I'm also a Chicagoan who is watching everything happening in abject horror. My neighbor's landscaper was assaulted and dragged from the yard bloodied and thrown into a van on Monday. We have no idea where he is. Kicker? He's a citizen. Got it 2 years ago. But, he's brown, so that doesn't seem to matter. I hate this timeline.

Turning off the news is a good solution when you're overwhelmed, but my opinion is that everyone needs to be seeing what is actually happening rn.

chicagocinco

Hello fellow Chicagoan 👋🏻 I totally get where you are coming from. I honestly just wrote out a very very long response, but I think it was mostly me just venting my own frustrations at everything going on as well. Just know that I feel what you are going through and they are valid feelings. 

I wish I could help more with some situations that are going on. As far as flights go, I'm thankful I work at a company where the executives can just backup plane tickets, train tickets, etc. As for me, I have my own personal flight on saturday, if it's pushed out too far or canceled, I'm going to miss a cruise ship. So I'm a little worried, but I'm trying to have the mindset of what will be will be and just take it as it comes. I'm just hopeful the executives I support are understanding, and luckily I work with an amazing group of people. One has already had contingency plans with a train ticket and canceling a flight just because even if her flight isn't canceled or delayed, the airports are going to be a nightmare to be in anyways.

Substantial-Bet-4775

Pure Barre is the only way I don’t lose it every day!! I’m an EA too. In red Indiana.

broadripple_is_ducky

It's literally okay for them to cancel or delay travel find a way to meet remote or take a train. It is their choice to insist on a plane.

jhusapple

My exec and I along with many of our executive leadership are heading across the pond next week. I'm concerned but not worried. All you can do is plan just like you should for any travel...backups, backups, backups. Its part of our role to manage things like this that are often out of our control but still make them work. Have patience, kindness during stressful times and be creative. You'll make it through. 

And I agree. Turn off the news. Watch/read enough to know what's going on but then stop and don't dwell on what you can't control. Just be aware. 

Good luck all you smart strategic colleagues!! We've got this!

Positive_Ad_1751

Im booking back up flights in the event the first one gets canceled. You just cancel which one you wont need 30 mins prior.

caldonstrain436

Train, bus, drive, meet online, 
Start having a conversation now so expectations can be adjusted.
And I'm also from Chicago, it's not that bad. 
Stop doomscrolling for your own mental health. You have no control over it so stop worrying about what you can't control and focus on what you can. 

GeriatricXennial82

ATC here; we’re miserable. It’s not any more unsafe than it is on a regular day. If a facility or area is very short, volume will decrease and flights will be cancelled. We’ve been pretty miserable for a while because a lot of us get 4 days off per month and our wages have stayed quite stagnant while most others in the industry have gone up significantly. 

All of that to say don’t worry about your flight, it’s still a very safe system and there are plenty of mitigating tools available to both pilots and controllers alike.

MeeowOnGuard

r/fearofflying and search. it’s been addressed repeatedly

anonymous4071

If this lasts until Nov 20 it's not ATC you have to worry about. Id expect massive delays at TSA basically shutting things down.

JP001122

No, the government shutdown is not causing flights.

moomooraincloud

Aviation is all risk management.  Safety buffers are built in place for aircraft, aircraft maintenance, pilot and ATC certifications to provide maximum assurance of an uneventful flight.  That said, when you throw in unexpected pressures and stressors amidst increasing air travel into the holiday season, I’d say we have a less than reasonable assurance of flight safety 

Relevant_Night_9288

Here's an official statement 


‘We won’t let people travel’: Officials warn as SFO delays pile up https://share.google/UNNfuhK0HRTHkD3pJ

Away-Flight3161

You’re awesome. I’m so sorry this is happening and you have to deal with everything.

2CatDadinSF

still safe to fly

The shutdown isn't affecting the safety of flying; thousands of flights are still operating every day.

AA, US, DL &amp; SWA EACH fly over 7500 flights EVERY day with no issues

Icy_Huckleberry_8049

jjamesr539

AdZealousideal8613

ATC here and it’s most certainly less safe. Delays will depend heavily on where you’re flying and when.

campingJ

We fly out tomorrow AM from MSN to LGA, and then come back Sunday - same route. Should we cancel our trip? I don’t want to get stuck in New York… although there are worse places to be stuck!

Chemical_Ad3287

Been to la, boise seattle spokane all in the last week....seattle and spokane today.  No delays.  No issues whatsoever.

Ironman_2678

You know who is getting paid by grifting half of America?   The guy in charge.  Don't vote for selfish self serving assholes.

Hats off to ATC. They are working just as diligently and professionally as they were when they were getting paid. Safety wise? Nothing to worry about. Schedule wise? Be ready for delays and cancelations. The volume of flights going from A to B will always be managed to accommodate the workload of ATC. So if there are less controllers working a certain sector on a certain day, traffic may be metered if enough people don't show up. And if anyone has a good excuse not to show up to work, it's ATC. Yet they keep showing up every day. Thank them for everything they do.

mister_based

You'll go through security at LAX, if you have to change planes in Houston you'll just get off of your LAX flight and move to the gate for your connecting flight.  No secondary security screening.

hey_blue_13

Seems like you’re staying airside in Houston so security wait times shouldn’t be an issue.

milkyjoewithawig

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Ive gone through IAH twice in the past month with zero issues, but who knows what happens in the next few weeks

BelowMikeHawk

Is it a full connection on United in Houston?  If so, you're going from LAX &gt; HOU &gt; final destination (US?) 

You don't have to go through security again if you're staying with the same airline and domestic.

starwyo

The ongoing US government shutdown has led to significant disruptions in air travel, with over 5,000 flights canceled or delayed as airlines implement mandated reductions to alleviate pressure on air traffic controllers forced to work without pay.

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