A looming federal government shutdown, with funding set to expire October 1st, raises travel concerns. TSA and air traffic control staff will work without pay, while commercial flights and Amtrak operations are expected to continue. However, past shutdowns have seen increased TSA call-outs leading to longer waits and air traffic controller absences causing flight disruptions and ground stops. Training for new air traffic controllers may also be impacted.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.